Physics
Scientific paper
Oct 1984
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1984nascp2330..349f&link_type=abstract
In JPL Uranus and Neptune p 349-255 (SEE N85-11927 02-91)
Physics
1
Neptune (Planet), Oblate Spheroids, Planetary Structure, Uranus (Planet), Ellipticity, Planetary Cores, Planetary Rotation, Polarity, Stellar Occultation, Stratoscope Telescopes
Scientific paper
The oblateness of a planet is closely related to its rotation rate and internal mass distribution, and is therefore an important indicator of gross planetary structure. Analysis of Stratoscope II images of Uranus yields epsilon = 0.022 + or - 0.001, and stellar occultation observations yield epsilon = 0.024 + or - 0.003. Because of the current pole on aspect of Uranus, it is unlikely that a significantly more accurate value can be determined by stellar occultations before Voyager 2 encounters Uranus in January, 1986. Neptune's oblateness has been determined from stellar occultation observations made in 1968 and 1983. The 1968 observations yield an oblateness of 0.021 + or - 0.004. A recent determination of Neptune's oblateness using both the 1968 and 1983 observations is consistent with this value. Space Telescope observations of several stellar occultations by Neptune could provide a significantly more accurate determination of the oblateness before the Voyager 2 encounter in 1990.
No associations
LandOfFree
Oblatenesses of Uranus and Neptune 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 Oblatenesses of Uranus and Neptune, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Oblatenesses of Uranus and Neptune will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1229351