Infrared Studies of the Outer Planets

Presenter(s): Barry Adcock

Affiliation(s): ASV, BAS

Session details: Sunday, 2018-04-01 06:30:00, MCON

Abstract

Infrared Studies of the Outer Planets The outer planets Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune have been imaged using a set of infrared bandpass filters each with a band width of 40 nm. Modern infrared digital cameras allow the opportunity to acquire images into the micrometre region of the spectrum. The subtle differences between images using a range of bandpass filters is not obvious. Two methods have been developed to highlight the differences. On a gaseous surface the brightness of a feature at a given wavelength is closely related to temperature. The resulting images show the development and evolution of storms and festoons on Jupiter and lead to a better understanding of the dynamics of the Jovian atmosphere. Infrared photography also provides a platform for imaging the planets during daylight hours. This is important if a particular feature is to be observed when the planet is near superior conjunction.

Biography

Honorary life member of both ASV and BAS. Berenice Page medal 1990, member of ASA. Director of the ASV Lunar and Planetary section for 40 years. I use my own home made telescopes.