On the reality of the suggested planet in the ν Octantis system

Abstract

The aim of this study is to explore an enigmatic finding about the ν Octantis binary system that indicates the possible existence of a Jupiter-type planet even though the planet seems to be located outside the zone of orbital stability. We perform a detailed analysis of orbital stability based on previous studies that carefully considers the ν Octantis system parameters including their observationally deduced uncertainties. In our analysis, we confront the probability distribution of the parameter space of the system with the requirements of planetary orbital stability. Our results indicate that the suggested planet, if in a prograde orbit with respect to the motion of the binary components, is virtually impossible. However, the estimated probability of existence for a planet in a retrograde orbit is nearly 60%, an estimate that encapsulates the probability distribution of the mass ratio of the stellar components. This estimate increases if a relatively low stellar mass ratio (within the error bars) is assumed. The principal possibility of a planet in a retrograde orbit is also consistent with long-term orbital stability simulations pursued as part of our study. Thus, the existence of the suggested planet in the ? Octantis system constitutes a realistic possibility. © 2010. The American Astronomical Society. All rights reserved.