HD 98800: A most unusual debris disc

TL;DR

This study investigates the complex dynamics of planetesimals in the unusual debris disc of HD 98800, revealing possible warped, high-inclination, and stable regions influenced by the system's unique quadruple star configuration.

Contribution

It provides the first detailed dynamical analysis of the HD 98800 debris disc, highlighting the potential for warped and retrograde disc structures due to the quadruple star system's influence.

Findings

Presence of warped and retrograde disc structures.

Existence of stable regions despite complex dynamics.

Disc features observable despite high inclination angles.

Abstract

The dynamics of planetesimals in the circumbinary debris disc of the quadruple star system HD 98800 are investigated. Evolving a spherical shell of test particles from a million years ago to the present day indicates that both coplanar and retrograde warped discs could exist, as well as a high inclination halo of material. Significant gaps are seen in the discs, as well as unexpected regions of stability due to the retrograde nature of the stellar orbits. Despite a viewing angle almost perpendicular to the direction of the warp of the planetesimal disc it is still intersected by the line of sight for eccentricities of the outer orbit of 0.5 or less.