Comet Hartley 2 Flyby: Incredible Images from NASA's Deep Impact Probe

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the recent flyby of Comet Hartley 2 by NASA's Deep Impact probe, focusing on the images captured and the scientific observations made during the encounter. Participants express interest in the nature of the gases being released from the comet and seek additional visual data.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note the presence of jets of volatile materials emanating from the shaded side of the comet.
  • There is curiosity about the specific gases evaporating from the comet, with some participants questioning whether this has been analyzed yet.
  • One participant speculates that spectra may be available and suggests that cyanogen could be among the gases off-gassing from the comet.
  • A request is made for additional photos from the flyby, indicating interest in further visual documentation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express interest in the observations and potential analyses, but there is no consensus on the specific gases involved or the availability of additional images.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the analysis of the gases and the availability of further photographic evidence from the mission.

Andre
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This morning, NASA's Deep Impact (EPOXI) probe flew past Comet Hartley 2 only 435 miles from the comet's active nucleus. The spacecraft has since turned its high-gain antenna toward Earth and data are being transmitted to mission control at JPL.

Amazing (Credit NASA)
2labqbo.jpg
 
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Interesting - jets of volatile materials gassing off from the shaded side of the comet...
 
That is such a cool picture to be honest, Would anyone possibly know what kind of gas is evaporating from that comet?or that hasn't been analyzed yet.
 
Sniperman724 said:
That is such a cool picture to be honest, Would anyone possibly know what kind of gas is evaporating from that comet?or that hasn't been analyzed yet.
I'll bet that they have spectra, so we'll find out. Cyanogen off-gassing perhaps.
 
Andre, is there a sight with more photos posted?
 

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