Physics – Optics
Scientific paper
Sep 2006
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2006a%26a...456..761h&link_type=abstract
Astronomy and Astrophysics, Volume 456, Issue 2, September III 2006, pp.761-774
Physics
Optics
22
Planets And Satellites: Individual: Titan, Instrumentation: Adaptive Optics
Scientific paper
For the past 8 years (1998-2005), we have used adaptive optics imaging (with VLT/NACO and CFHT/PUEO) to explore Titan's atmosphere, which is currently scrutinized in situ by the Cassini-Huygens mission. In the course of our work, we have found variations, such as as seasonal and diurnal effects, as well as temporary features in the southern polar region. The north-south asymmetry is shown to have changed since 2000 in the near-IR and to be currently organized in a brighter northern than southern pole. We study this evolution here. With our data, we also have new significant statistical evidence of diurnal effects in Titan's stratosphere, with a brighter (as much as 19%) morning limb appearing in our images in many cases, when the phase effect is expected on the evening side. The southern bright feature is probably a time-limited seasonal and/or meteorological phenomenon, revolving around the south pole (confined in its motion within the 80°S parallel) and located somewhere in the upper troposphere (18-40 km of altitude). Its behavior and possible nature are discussed here.
Combes Michel
Coustenis Athena
Drossart Pierre
Gendron Eric
Hirtzig Mathieu
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