NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2010B-0248
|
NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2010B-0248 |
|
PI: Lawrence Sromovsky, University of Wisconsin at Madison (Space Science & Engineering Ctr), larry.sromovsky@ssec.wisc.edu
Address: 1225 W. Dayton St., Madison, WI 53706, USA
CoI: Patrick Fry, University of Wisconsin at Madison (Space Science & Engineering Ctr)
Title: Characterization of Seasonal Changes on Uranus
Abstract:
Recent images from Keck and HST observatories reveal surprisingly rapid
changes in band structure and hemispheric asymmetry as Uranus passed through
its 2007 equinox, including the development of a new cloud band in the
northern hemisphere since 2006. To characterize associated changes in the
vertical and latitudinal distribution of aerosols and methane mixing ratio,
we propose spatially resolved NIFS observations of Uranus in J and H spectral
bands, with adaptive optics, using the variations of methane absorption with
wavelength and view angle to probe different atmospheric levels. We propose
to also use NIRI broad-band and narrow-band imaging to provide absolute
calibration tie points and better characterization of discrete high-altitude
cloud features.
National Optical Astronomy Observatory, 950 North Cherry Avenue, P.O. Box 26732, Tucson, Arizona 85726, Phone: (520) 318-8000, Fax: (520) 318-8360
|
NOAO > Observing Info > Approved Programs > 2010B-0248 |
|