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The Effect of Surface Roughness on Triton's Volatile Distribution.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|March 20, 1992
Summary
Nitrogen (N(2)) frost may be condensing in Triton's equatorial regions, appearing dark due to surface texture and illumination. This explains observed wind patterns and suggests warmer equatorial temperatures compared to polar areas.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Astrobiology
- Surface Physics
Background:
- Triton's surface exhibits varying albedo, with equatorial regions appearing relatively dark.
- Previous observations and models have not fully explained the distribution of surface frost and its thermal implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for nitrogen (N(2)) condensation in Triton's equatorial regions.
- To reconcile surface appearance with thermal equilibrium calculations and observed atmospheric phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Radiative equilibrium temperature calculations were performed for Triton's rough surface.
- Analysis of surface texture and illumination effects on frost visibility was conducted.
Main Results:
- Calculations suggest significant N(2) condensation in northern equatorial regions, despite their dark appearance.
- Bright frost may be concentrated on unilluminated surface facets, below Voyager imaging resolution.
- A patchwork of frost and bare ground could explain the overall dark appearance of these regions.
Conclusions:
- The presence of N(2) frost, concentrated in specific facets, is a plausible explanation for Triton's equatorial region appearance.
- This hypothesis supports warmer equatorial temperatures relative to the south polar regions.
- The findings provide a potential explanation for observed southern hemisphere wind directions.
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