Skip to main navigation Skip to search Skip to main content

The NEO (175706) 1996 FG3 in the 2-4μm spectral region: Evidence for an aqueously altered surface

  • Andrew S. Rivkin
  • , Ellen S. Howell
  • , Ronald J. Vervack
  • , Chris Magri
  • , Michael C. Nolan
  • , Yan R. Fernandez
  • , Andrew F. Cheng
  • , M. Antonietta Barucci
  • , Patrick Michel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

We present observations of the binary near-Earth Asteroid (175706) 1996 FG3 in the 2-4. μm spectral region, obtained on multiple nights using the SpeX instrument on the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility (IRTF). We find evidence for an absorption band of ~5-10% (depending on the night and details of continuum choice), diagnostic for hydrated/hydroxylated minerals on the asteroid surface. This demonstrates that the optical surface of 1996 FG3 has not been heated to dehydrating temperatures. Sample-return missions targeting 1996 FG3 will likely find relatively fresh areas for sampling.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)493-498
Number of pages6
JournalIcarus
Volume223
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2013
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Asteroids
  • Asteroids, Composition
  • Asteroids, Surfaces
  • Spectroscopy

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
  • Space and Planetary Science

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The NEO (175706) 1996 FG3 in the 2-4μm spectral region: Evidence for an aqueously altered surface'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this