Measurement of the diameter of Pluto by speckle interferometry

Details Measurement of the diameter of Pluto by speckle interferometry Measurement of the diameter of Pluto by speckle interferometry

Dec 1979

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1979apj...234l.159a&link_type=abstract

Astrophysical Journal, Part 2 - Letters to the Editor, vol. 234, Dec. 1, 1979, p. L159-L163.

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astrophysics

12

Astrometry, Dimensional Measurement, Holographic Interferometry, Pluto (Planet), Speckle Patterns, Albedo, Data Reduction, Diameters, Limb Darkening, Planetary Mass, Planetary Surfaces, Pluto, Diameter, Interferometry, Speckle Techniques, Surface, Albedo, Methane, Frost, Mass, Density, Limbs, Observations, Data Reduction, Equipment, Spectrum, Procedure, Analysis, Satellites, Image Photon Counting System

Scientific paper

For the diameter of Pluto the values of 3000 + or - 400 km, assuming no limb darkening, and 3600 + or - 400 km, assuming limb darkening following a cosine law are obtained. The presence of a degree of limb darkening is possibly indicated by earlier work. The data also show evidence of surface structure, and possibly a strong surface mottling, strong central enhancement in brightness (as would be produced by a semispecular surface), or a combination of both. Values for the average geometric albedo are 0.36 + or - 0.14 (no limb darkening) and 0.25 + or - 0.08 (limb darkening included), consistent with a surface having a large covering of methane frost. From a determination of Pluto's mass using recent data, mean densities of 0.8 (+0.6, -0.3) g/cu cm (no limb darkening) and 0.5 (+0.3, -0.2) g/cu cm (limb darkening included) are obtained. Such low densities suggest that Pluto consists mainly of frozen volatiles.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Measurement of the diameter of Pluto by speckle interferometry does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Measurement of the diameter of Pluto by speckle interferometry, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Measurement of the diameter of Pluto by speckle interferometry will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1443313