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Polarimetry of PlutoThe polarization of Pluto has been measured for a range of solar phase angles from 0.8 to 1.8 deg. A mean linear polarization of 0.29 + or - 0.01% (error of the mean) was found. No dependence of both the amount of polarization and position angles with rotational phase or solar phase angle could be detected. The positional angles of polarization agree with calculated position angles of the defect of illumination and are therefore parallel to the scattering plane. The observed polarization cannot be explained as resulting purely from a surface material which is similar to asteroidal surfaces. A hypothesis of polarization from a thin atmosphere, in addition to the surface polarization, is advanced.
Document ID
19820047727
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Breger, M.
(Texas Univ. Austin, TX, United States)
Cochran, W. D.
(Texas, University McDonald Observatory, Austin, TX, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1982
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 49
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
82A31262
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NGR-44-012-152
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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