The magnetic field of the planet-hosting star τ Bootis

C. Catala, J. F. Donati, E. Shkolnik, D. Bohlender, E. Alecian

Research output: Contribution to journalLetterpeer-review

88 Scopus citations

Abstract

We have obtained high-resolution spectropolarimetric data for the planet-hosting star τ Bootis, using the ESPaDOnS spectropolarimeter at the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope (CFHT). A weak but clear Stokes V signature is detected on three of the four nights of 2006 June during which we have recorded data. This polarimetric signature indicates with no ambiguity the presence of a magnetic field at the star's surface, with intensity of just a few gauss. The analysis of the photospheric lines of τ Boo at ultra-high signal-to-noise ratio reveals the presence of an 18 per cent relative differential rotation. Tentative Zeeman-Doppler imaging, using our spectropolarimetric observations covering only a fraction of the star's rotational phase, indicates a magnetic field with a dominant potential field component. The data are best fitted when a 3.1-d period of modulation and an intermediate inclination are assumed. Considering the level of differential rotation of τ Boo, this implies a rotation period of 3.0 d at the equator and of 3.7 d at the pole, and a topology of the magnetic field where its main non-axisymmetric part is located at low latitudes. The planet is probably synchronized with the star's rotation at intermediate latitudes, while the non-axisymmetric part of the magnetic field seems located at lower latitudes. Our limited data do not provide sufficient constraints on the magnetic field to study a possible interaction of the planet with the star's magnetosphere. Investigating this issue will require data with much better phase coverage. Similar studies should also be performed for other stars hosting close-in giant planets.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)L42-L46
JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society: Letters
Volume374
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2007
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Stars: magnetic fields
  • Stars: planetary systems

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

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