Slashdot Mirror


The Lower Atmosphere of Pluto Revealed

Matt_dk writes "Using ESO's Very Large Telescope, astronomers have gained valuable new insights about the atmosphere of the dwarf planet Pluto. The scientists found unexpectedly large amounts of methane in the atmosphere, and also discovered that the atmosphere is hotter than the surface by about 40 degrees, although it still only reaches a frigid minus 180 degrees Celsius. These properties of Pluto's atmosphere may be due to the presence of pure methane patches or of a methane-rich layer covering the dwarf planet's surface."

5 of 109 comments (clear)

  1. Re:Quite a long and interesting article... by Canazza · · Score: 5, Informative

    um, Charon?

    --
    It pays to be obvious, especially if you have a reputation for being subtle.
  2. Re:liquid methane by jschen · · Score: 4, Informative

    The boiling point depends on the atmospheric pressure. Boiling points are typically reported based on sea level on Earth. With a much lower atmospheric pressure on Pluto, boiling points will drop.

  3. Re:i see the future by Amazing+Quantum+Man · · Score: 4, Funny

    That's "Gravitationally Challenged" planet, you insensitive clod!

    --
    Fascism starts when the efficiency of the government becomes more important than the rights of the people.
  4. Re:So... by wooferhound · · Score: 4, Insightful

    Earth will Always be a planet and all other space objects will be compared against it.
    If we get too picky then Earth will be the Only planet as nothing else will fit the description of Earth.

    --
    We are Dead Stars looking back Up at the Sky
  5. Re:Eris by mysticgoat · · Score: 4, Funny

    Eris should be called a planet.

    If you don't invite her to the party, there will be hell to pay.