Deep Impact: excavating comet Tempel 1

Science. 2005 Oct 14;310(5746):258-64. doi: 10.1126/science.1118923. Epub 2005 Sep 8.

Abstract

Deep Impact collided with comet Tempel 1, excavating a crater controlled by gravity. The comet's outer layer is composed of 1- to 100-micrometer fine particles with negligible strength (<65 pascals). Local gravitational field and average nucleus density (600 kilograms per cubic meter) are estimated from ejecta fallback. Initial ejecta were hot (>1000 kelvins). A large increase in organic material occurred during and after the event, with smaller changes in carbon dioxide relative to water. On approach, the spacecraft observed frequent natural outbursts, a mean radius of 3.0 +/- 0.1 kilometers, smooth and rough terrain, scarps, and impact craters. A thermal map indicates a surface in equilibrium with sunlight.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Jupiter
  • Meteoroids*
  • Organic Chemicals / analysis
  • Spectrum Analysis

Substances

  • Organic Chemicals