Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Sep 2009
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009dps....41.2111n&link_type=abstract
American Astronomical Society, DPS meeting #41, #21.11
Mathematics
Logic
Scientific paper
We report evidence suggesting current cryovolcanic activity on Titan. This is based on surface changes seen at selected locations by the Cassini Visual and Infrared Mapping Spectrometer (VIMS). Titan's surface is hard to observe because Titan's atmosphere is opaque at visual wavelengths due to methane absorption. However, VIMS is able to image the surface at selected infrared wavelengths where the methane is relatively transparent[1,2]. VIMS reported surface reflectance variability at Hotei Arcus (26S,78W) and that the variability might be due to deposition followed by coverage or dissipation of ammonia frost. Subsequently, Cassini RADAR images found that Hotei Arcus has lobate "flow” forms, consistent with the morphology of volcanic terrain [3]. Here we report the discovery of lobate "flow” patterns at Hotei Arcus in VIMS infrared images taken during Cassini close flybys during 2008-2009. These data further suggest that the brightness variability at Hotei Arcus is associated with ammonia, a compound expected in Titan's interior. This, combined with the previous evidence from VIMS and RADAR images, creates a strong case for Titan having a presently active surface, possibly due to cryovolcanism.
It has not escaped our attention that gaseous ammonia, in association with methane and nitrogen in Titan's atmosphere, is similar to the terrestrial environment at the time that life first emerged. If Titan is currently active, then these results raise the following questions: What is the full extent of current geologic activity? What are the ongoing processes? Are Titan's chemical processes today supporting a prebiotic chemistry similar to that under which life evolved on Earth?
This work done at JPL under contract with NASA.
References: [1]R. M. Nelson et al., Icarus 199 (2009) 429-441. [2]R. M. Nelson et al., GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH LETTERS, VOL. 36, L04202, doi:10.1029/2008GL036206, 2009. [3]S. D. Wall GEOPHYSICAL RESEARCH LETTERS, VOL. 36, L04203, doi:10.1029/2008GL036415, 2009
Cassini VIMS Titan Surface Variability Group
Nelson Robert M.
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