Spectral analysis of mid-IR excesses of central stars of planetary nebulae

Abstract

AbstractIn our Spitzer 24 μm survey of hot white dwarfs (WDs) we found 9 WDs with IR excesses, 7 of them are still central stars of planetary nebulae (CSPNs). We have thus carried out a Spitzer archival survey of CSPNs, and found additional objects with IR excesses. To date, a total of 13 CSPNs show IR excesses from Spitzer observations. These mid-IR excesses are indicative of the presence of circumstellar dust, which could be produced by collisions or disruption of sub-planetary objects. To further assess the nature of these IR excesses, we have obtained Spitzer IRS, Gemini NIRI and Michelle, and KPNO 4m echelle spectra of these objects. In this poster, we summarize the spectroscopic observations and discuss the nature of these IR excesses.