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An analysis of the light curve of Pluto.The light curve of Pluto is analyzed in terms of a geometrical model consisting of bright and dark areas which are assumed to exhibit either a diffuse or a geometrical type of reflectivity. A Fourier analysis method is used to invert the observed light curve to obtain the longitudinal distribution of bright and dark areas for any combination of albedos selected for the two types of terrain. The analysis indicates that the light curve of Pluto can be readily understood in terms of a surface consisting of bright and dark areas. However, on the basis of the presently available photometric data, the existence or absence of limb-darkened material cannot be established.
Document ID
19720049465
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Lacis, A. A.
Fix, J. D.
(Iowa, University Iowa City, Iowa, United States)
Date Acquired
August 6, 2013
Publication Date
June 1, 1972
Publication Information
Publication: Astrophysical Journal
Volume: 174
Subject Category
Space Sciences
Accession Number
72A33131
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGL-16-001-002
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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