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Triton: do we see to the surface?
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|July 21, 1989
Summary
New telescopic data reveal methane ice and nitrogen on Neptune's moon Triton. This suggests Triton's atmosphere is transparent enough for sunlight to reach its surface, potentially revealing surface features.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Astrobiology
- Atmospheric Science
Background:
- Neptune's moon Triton possesses a unique atmosphere and surface composition.
- Understanding the physical state of volatiles on Triton is key to understanding its environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the quantity and physical state of methane and nitrogen on Triton.
- To determine atmospheric transparency and surface conditions on Triton.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of new telescopic data.
- Laboratory measurements of methane and nitrogen volatiles.
Main Results:
- Methane ice is present on Triton's surface.
- Triton's atmosphere is transparent enough for sunlight to penetrate to the surface.
- Nitrogen is present in both atmospheric and condensed (liquid or solid) states on the surface or as a thin cloud.
Conclusions:
- Triton's surface conditions are influenced by both atmospheric and condensed volatiles.
- The transparency of Triton's atmosphere has implications for surface processes and observations.
- Voyager spacecraft imaging is expected to resolve Triton's surface features.
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