Moderate-resolution K-band Spectroscopy of Substellar Companion κ Andromedae b

Abstract

We present moderate-resolution (R similar to 4000) K-band spectra of the "super-Jupiter,"kappa Andromedae b. The data were taken with the OSIRIS integral field spectrograph at Keck Observatory. The spectra reveal resolved molecular lines from H2O and CO, and are compared to a custom PHOENIX atmosphere model grid appropriate for young planetary-mass objects. We fit the data using a Markov chain Monte Carlo forward-modeling method. Using a combination of our moderate-resolution spectrum and low-resolution, broadband data from the literature, we derive an effective temperature of T-eff = 1950-2150 K, a surface gravity of log g = 3.5-4.5, and a metallicity of [M/H] = -0.2-0.0. These values are consistent with previous estimates from atmospheric modeling and the currently favored young age of the system (<50 Myr). We derive a C/O ratio of 0.70(-0.24)(+0.09) for the source, broadly consistent with the solar C/O ratio. This, coupled with the slightly subsolar metallicity, implies a composition consistent with that of the host star, and is suggestive of formation by a rapid process. The subsolar metallicity of kappa Andromedae b is also consistent with predictions of formation via gravitational instability. Further constraints on formation of the companion will require measurement of the C/O ratio of kappa Andromedae A. We also measure the radial velocity of kappa Andromedae b for the first time, with a value of -1.4 +/- 0.9 km s(-1) relative to the host star. We find that the derived radial velocity is consistent with the estimated high eccentricity of kappa Andromedae b.