Systematics of the CHON and other light-element particle populations in Comet HalleyBased on chemical signatures measured by the PIA experiment during the Giotto flyby of comet Halley, particle classifications were designated. In addition to silicate-like grains and particles of mixed (cosmic) composition, there appear to be several light-element rich populations, including the CHON, (H,C), (H,C,O), and (H,C,N) particle types. These compositional classes are further distinguished by differences in mass distributions, a density indicator, and variations in relative abundance within the coma. These particle populations are evidence for chemical heterogeneity in the surface of the cometary nucleus. Particles found mainly in the inner coma may be volatile icy grains. Most of the N of the comet may be found in up to three different populations of grains; one or more of these may be responsible for the observation of cyanojets.
Document ID
19870017348
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Clark, Benton (Martin Marietta Aerospace Denver, CO, United States)
Mason, Larry W. (Martin Marietta Aerospace Denver, CO, United States)