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COMETARY SCIENCE. 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko surface properties as derived from CIVA panoramic images
J-P Bibring1, Y Langevin2, J Carter2
1Institut d'Astrophysique Spatiale (IAS), CNRS/Université Paris Sud, Orsay, France. bibring@ias.u-psud.fr.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|August 1, 2015
Summary
Images from the Comet Infrared and Visible Analyser (CIVA) on Philae revealed comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko’s fractured surface. These findings offer insights into pristine cometary material and early solar system formation.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Cometary Science
- Astrogeology
Background:
- Cometary structure and composition are key to understanding planetary formation.
- Comet 67P/Churyumumov-Gerasimenko provides a unique window into the early solar system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the surface materials of comet 67P/Churyumumov-Gerasimenko using in-situ imaging.
- To analyze the microscopic structure, grain scales, and albedo of cometary surface materials.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Comet Infrared and Visible Analyser (CIVA) instrument on the Philae lander.
- Acquired high-resolution images of the comet's surface at two distinct time points: post-touchdown and after final resting position.
Main Results:
- The CIVA experiment captured detailed images of the comet's surface.
- Analysis revealed a fractured surface with complex structures and diverse grain sizes and albedos.
- The observed surface features are consistent with pristine cometary material.
Conclusions:
- The surface of comet 67P/Churyumumov-Gerasimenko exhibits complex fracturing and varied material properties.
- These characteristics suggest the presence of pristine cometary material, offering insights into solar system evolution.
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