Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics
Scientific paper
Sep 2004
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2004sptz.prop.2316w&link_type=abstract
Spitzer Proposal ID #2316
Astronomy and Astrophysics
Astrophysics
Scientific paper
A key scientific challenge in modern astrophysics is to understand conditions in early protoplanetary disks during the epoch of planetesimal formation. In our own solar system, comets are frozen archives of this early epoch. Using Spitzer (+IRS), we propose an extensive 45.9 hr study of 52 select comets (both Jupiter- and Oort-family members). We will investigate their physical properties and dust characteristics, and search for possible organic (PAH-like) signatures, creating the first comprehensive mid- and far-infrared database of these relic, nearly pristine samples of outer solar nebula materials. Our program will enable the first comprehensive survey of faint Jupiter-family comet dust properties, permit an in-depth, systematic comparison of Jupiter- and Oort-family comet dust properties and physical characteristics, facilitate assessment of the importance of crystalline silicates as a diagnostic of solar nebula evolution and turbulent mixing models, and establish critical remote-sensing data products to provide interpretive context for NASA and ESA comet rendezvous and sample return missions. Only Spitzer has the mJy sensitivity at mid- and far-infrared wavelengths to detect the significant diagnostic spectral features/resonances emitted by dust, organics, and ices, necessary to effect this survey program.
Campins Huberto
Gehrz Robert
Hanner Martha
Harker David
Kelley Michael
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