A Theoretical Interpretation of the Measurements of the Secondary Eclipses of TrES-1 and HD 209458b

• Published in: The Astrophysical journal 2005-06, Vol.625 (2), p.L135-L138
• Main Authors: Burrows, A, Hubeny, I, Sudarsky, D
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1538-4357; 0004-637X; 1538-4357
• DOI: 10.1086/431242

We calculate the planet-to-star flux density ratios as a function of wavelength from 0.5 to 25 mu m for the transiting extrasolar giant planets TrES-1 and HD 209458b and compare them with the recent Spitzer/IRAC-MIPS secondary eclipse data in the 4.5, 8.0, and 24 mu m bands. With only three data points and generic calibration issues, detailed conclusions are difficult, but inferences regarding atmospheric composition, temperature, and global circulation can be made. Our models reproduce the observations reasonably well, but not perfectly, and we speculate on the theoretical consequences of variations around our baseline models. One preliminary conclusion is that we may be seeing in the data indications that the day side of a close-in extrasolar giant planet is brighter in the mid-infrared than its night side, unlike Jupiter and Saturn. This correspondence will be further tested when the data anticipated in other Spitzer bands are acquired, and we make predictions for what those data may show.