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Sublimation-driven convection in Sputnik Planitia on Pluto.
Adrien Morison1, Stéphane Labrosse2, Gaël Choblet3
1Physics and Astronomy, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
Nature
|December 16, 2021
Summary
Sublimation-driven convection explains Sputnik Planitia's polygonal surface patterns on Pluto. This process requires a lower basal heat flux or a higher viscosity contrast within the nitrogen ice layer.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Geophysics
- Surface Processes
Background:
- Sputnik Planitia on Pluto features unique polygonal surface patterns.
- Previous models involving solid-state convection failed to replicate the observed topography of flat polygons and narrow troughs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of surface sublimation in driving convection within Sputnik Planitia's nitrogen ice basin.
- To reconcile models of convection with the observed surface morphology.
Main Methods:
- Numerical modeling of convection processes within Pluto's Sputnik Planitia.
- Analysis of the effects of varying basal heat flux and ice viscosity contrast on surface patterns.
Main Results:
- Sublimation-driven convection successfully reproduces the observed polygonal structures.
- The model indicates a lower basal heat flux (~0.3 mW m⁻²) than previously accepted values.
- Alternatively, the commonly accepted heat flux (2-3 mW m⁻²) can sustain these patterns with a significantly higher viscosity contrast (~3,000).
Conclusions:
- Surface sublimation is a key mechanism driving convection and shaping the surface of Sputnik Planitia.
- The findings suggest a revised understanding of heat flux and material properties within Pluto's nitrogen ice.
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