Triton: a satellite with an atmosphere. (original) (raw)

NASA/ADS

Abstract

A low-resolution infrared spectrum of Triton in the region 1.4-2.6 microns shows a broad absorption at 2.3 microns which is attributed to gaseous methane. The computed surface partial pressure of CH4, based on a random band model extrapolation of new laboratory spectra, is (1 + or - 0.5) times 10 to the -4th bars, a value consistent with the calculated vapor pressure of methane gas above methane ice at the expected temperature of Triton. There is, however, no compelling evidence for the presence of solid CH4 on the satellite's surface.

Publication:

The Astrophysical Journal

Pub Date:

November 1979

DOI:

10.1086/157465

Bibcode:

1979ApJ...233.1016C

Keywords:

• Infrared Astronomy;
• Infrared Spectra;
• Natural Satellites;
• Neptune (Planet);
• Planetary Atmospheres;
• Absorption;
• Methane;
• Partial Pressure;
• Reflectance;
• Spectrophotometry;
• NEPTUNE;
• SATELLITES;
• TRITON;
• INFRARED;
• SPECTRUM;
• ICE;
• ATMOSPHERE;
• ABSORPTION;
• METHANE;
• VAPOR PRESSURE;
• MODELS;
• DATA;
• TELESCOPIC OBSERVATIONS;
• EQUIPMENT;
• SURFACE;
• SPECTROPHOTOMETRY;
• WAVELENGTHS;
• ANALYSIS;
• ALBEDO;
• GASES;
• Lunar and Planetary Exploration; Satellites of Neptune;
• Infrared Spectra:Neptune Satellites