The Mercury atmosphere

Data available on the composition of Mercury's atmosphere are reviewed, and the sources of these atmospheric components are considered. The known gaseous components in Mercury's atmosphere are H, He, O, Na, and K; among other gases likely to be present are H2 and H2O. Probable sources of these components are the solar wind for hydrogen and helium. The alkalis and water are considered to come from the evaporation of meteoroidal material, with a possible contribution to the former by sputtering and photosputtering.