Metal Polluted White Dwarfs with 21 μm IR excesses from JWST/MIRI: Planets or Dust?

The current paradigm is that metal pollution in white dwarfs arises from the accretion of planetary debris. This is supported by spectroscopic observations and abundance patterns consistent with rocky material. The paradigm includes theoretical models of tidal disruption events and planetary system evolution post-main sequence.

This preprint presents new observations from JWST that detect infrared excesses around two metal-polluted white dwarfs. The authors explore three possible explanations for the observed excesses: dust disks, planetary companions, or irradiated companions. While dust disks are plausible, the authors argue that the most likely explanation is the thermal emission from Jovian-mass planets. This interpretation aligns with the existing paradigm of metal pollution being caused by planetary systems, and strengthens the link between white dwarf pollution and the presence of planets.

The classification of this preprint as Normal Science or Model Drift is uncertain. If the candidate planets are confirmed, it would represent a significant step within the current paradigm, potentially leading to a refinement of existing models of planetary system evolution. This would fall under Normal Science. However, if further observations reveal that the excesses are caused by something other than planets, it could challenge current understanding and potentially lead to a Model Drift. More data is needed to definitively classify the preprint's stage in the paradigm cycle.