Astronomers are seeing Saturn’s rings in a whole new light. ADVERTISING Astronomers are seeing Saturn’s rings in a whole new light. A team of researchers using the Subaru Telescope atop Mauna Kea recently measured the brightness and temperature of the
Astronomers are seeing Saturn’s rings in a whole new light.
A team of researchers using the Subaru Telescope atop Mauna Kea recently measured the brightness and temperature of the planet’s rings using infrared images taken in 2008.
They are the highest resolution images from a ground-based telescope, according to the observatory.
The images revealed the Cassini Division, a wide dark area in between rings, and the C ring were brighter than other rings in mid-infrared light, the opposite of what is seen in visible light.
Subaru spokesman Hideaki Fujiwara said that means that particles in those rings, while
less reflective, are better at absorbing heat from the sun and helps researchers better
understand their composition.
He said Mauna Kea is particularly good for viewing mid-infrared light because of its low humidity.
