Analysis of GPI Images of HD 15115

Debris disk morphology provides information about the dynamical environment of circumstellar dust. Asymmetry and other shape distortions can signal that the disk is interacting with the ISM or being stirred by nearby planets. For this study, we analyzed GPI corona graphic images of the disk around HD 15115, dubbed the “blue needle.” Previous studies with STIS, SPHERE, and ALMA have shown a brightness asymmetry and suggested that two distinct dust belts might orbit the star. Our analysis reveals the same brightness asymmetry, plus a warp on the Eastern limb. A future research goal is to search for evidence of a second dust belt.