When
3:30 p.m., May 1, 2013
Where
Kuiper 308
Emily Schaller, Cal Tech, will discuss: “Surface Compositions of Kuiper Belt Objects.”
Abstract
Unlike main-belt asteroids, Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) are not easily categorized into compositional classes by their spectroscopic signatures. While some KBOs are large enough to retain volatile ices on their surfaces and can possess thin atmospheres (such as on Pluto), the vast majority of KBOs have surfaces dominated by involatile water ice and/or dark, spectrally featureless material. Recently, however, new spectroscopic observations have provided insight into the formation and evolution of many of these objects.
In this talk, I will discuss our recent spectroscopic observations of KBOs and what they have revealed about how giant collisions, UV photolysis, and atmospheric escape have shaped the surfaces of these bodies.
Refreshments will be served at 3:15 p.m. in the north corner of the atrium.
Please contact PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOm5hYUB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPm5hYUB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+ if you wish to meet with the speaker.
Abstract
Unlike main-belt asteroids, Kuiper Belt Objects (KBOs) are not easily categorized into compositional classes by their spectroscopic signatures. While some KBOs are large enough to retain volatile ices on their surfaces and can possess thin atmospheres (such as on Pluto), the vast majority of KBOs have surfaces dominated by involatile water ice and/or dark, spectrally featureless material. Recently, however, new spectroscopic observations have provided insight into the formation and evolution of many of these objects.
In this talk, I will discuss our recent spectroscopic observations of KBOs and what they have revealed about how giant collisions, UV photolysis, and atmospheric escape have shaped the surfaces of these bodies.
Refreshments will be served at 3:15 p.m. in the north corner of the atrium.
Please contact PG4gdWVycz0iem52eWdiOm5hYUB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWgiPm5hYUB5Y3kubmV2bWJhbi5ycWg8L24+ if you wish to meet with the speaker.
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