Is there a star that orbits a planet

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Star Orbiting a Planet: A Scientific Exploration

Introduction to Star-Planet Interactions

The dynamics of star-planet interactions have been a subject of intense study, particularly focusing on how these interactions influence the evolution of planetary orbits. When planets form from the protoplanetary disk, their orbits are shaped by tidal interactions, friction, gravitational drag, and changes in the mass of the star and planet. These factors can lead to significant changes in the distance between planets and their host stars, potentially causing planets to be engulfed by their stars or even destroyed.

Evolution of Planetary Orbits

Tidal Interactions and Stellar Rotation

Tidal interactions, especially in close-in star-planet systems, play a crucial role in the evolution of planetary orbits. The rotation of the host star significantly impacts these processes. Rapid initial stellar rotation and efficient angular momentum transport within the star can expand the region devoid of planets after the pre-main-sequence (PMS) phase. This phenomenon, known as the "planet desert," is observed in the distribution of exoplanets orbiting solar-mass stars.

Effects of Stellar Evolution

As stars evolve from the main sequence to the red giant phase, their expansion can drastically alter the orbits of surrounding planets. For instance, the discovery of a planetary-mass body orbiting the star V391 Pegasi, which is on the extreme horizontal branch of the Hertzsprung-Russell diagram, demonstrates that planets can survive the red giant expansion of their parent stars if they are at a sufficient distance. This finding is significant as it shows that planets within 2 astronomical units (au) can endure the dramatic changes in their host stars' sizes.

Notable Discoveries of Planets Orbiting Evolved Stars

HD 1397b: A Transiting Warm Giant Planet

The discovery of HD 1397b, a transiting warm giant planet orbiting a subgiant star, highlights the complexities of planetary systems around evolved stars. HD 1397b orbits its host star with a period of 11.54 days and has a moderately eccentric orbit. The host star, having departed from the main sequence, provides a unique opportunity to study the properties of giant planets in such environments.

EPIC 249893012: A System with Three Transiting Planets

Another intriguing system is EPIC 249893012, which hosts three transiting planets: one super-Earth and two sub-Neptunes. This system orbits a slightly evolved star that is just leaving the main sequence, making it an excellent candidate for studying the dynamics of planetary systems around evolving stars. The inner planet, with a mass of 8.75 Earth masses, has a density consistent with a rocky composition, while the outer planets suggest the presence of thick atmospheres.

Conclusion

While the concept of a star orbiting a planet remains speculative, the study of star-planet interactions and the evolution of planetary orbits around evolving stars provides valuable insights into the dynamics of such systems. Discoveries like V391 Pegasi and HD 1397b demonstrate that planets can survive significant changes in their host stars, offering a glimpse into the potential complexities of star-planet relationships. As our understanding of these interactions deepens, the possibility of finding more unique and diverse planetary systems continues to grow.