Exploring the Composition of Mars' Moons: Phobos & Deimos

In summary, Phobos and Deimos are the two moons of Mars composed primarily of carbon-rich rock, ice, and dust. They were either formed from debris ejected from Mars or captured by Mars' gravity. Scientists use spectroscopy and remote sensing to study their composition, which has provided insights into the formation and evolution of the moons and the early solar system.
  • #1
sid_galt
502
1
Is there any definite data on the composition of Phobos and Deimos?
 
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  • #2
http://seds.lpl.arizona.edu/nineplanets/nineplanets/phobos.html"

http://seds.lpl.arizona.edu/nineplanets/nineplanets/deimos.html"

Did you want something more specific than that?
 
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  • #3
And research goes on...
(I ran into an astronomer at the Straight Dope Message Boards a few years ago who was working on the composition of Phobos. I should find out how that went...)
 

1. What are Phobos and Deimos?

Phobos and Deimos are the two moons of Mars. They were discovered by American astronomer Asaph Hall in 1877.

2. What is the composition of Phobos and Deimos?

Phobos and Deimos are both composed primarily of carbon-rich rock, similar to C-type asteroids. They also contain ice and dust, and their surfaces are covered in a layer of fine regolith.

3. How were Phobos and Deimos formed?

There are several theories about the formation of Phobos and Deimos. One theory suggests that they were formed from debris ejected from Mars after a large impact. Another theory suggests that they were captured by Mars' gravity as they passed by the planet.

4. How do scientists study the composition of Phobos and Deimos?

Scientists use a variety of instruments and techniques to study the composition of Phobos and Deimos. These include spectroscopy, which measures the wavelengths of light emitted or absorbed by the moons, and remote sensing, which uses cameras and other equipment to gather data from a distance.

5. What have we learned from studying the composition of Phobos and Deimos?

Studying the composition of Phobos and Deimos has helped scientists understand the formation and evolution of these moons, as well as their relationship to Mars. It has also provided insights into the composition and history of the early solar system.

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