ABSTRACT. We apply our recently elaborated, powerful numerical approach to the high-resolution modeling of the structure and emission of circumstellar dust disks, incorporating all relevant physical processes. Specifically, we examine the resonant structure of a dusty disk induced by the presence of one planet. It is shown that the planet, via resonances and gravitational scattering, produces (1) an asymmetric resonant dust belt with one or more clumps, intermittent with one or a few off-center cavities, and (2) a central cavity void of dust. These features can serve as indicators of a planet embedded in the circumstellar dust disk and, moreover, can be used to determine its major orbital parameters and even the mass of the planet. The results of our study reveal a remarkable similarity with various types of highly asymmetric circumstellar disks observed with the James Clerk Maxwell Telescope around Eridani and Vega. The proposed interpretation of the clumps in those disks as being resonant patterns is testable—it predicts the asymmetric design around the star to revolve, viz., by 12-16 yr^-1 about Vega and 06-08 yr^-1 about Eri.

Subject headings: circumstellar matter; dust, extinction; planetary systems; stars: individual (Vega, Eridani)

Print publication: Issue 2 (2000 July 10)
Received 1999 August 25, accepted for publication 2000 May 31
Published 2000 June 30