Triton Composition



This is an image of Triton.
Click on image for full size version (165K JPG)
Image from: NASA
Composition is generally determined by detailed measurements of the spectra of an object. Spectral measurements of the surface of Triton reveal the presence not only of ice but of several different kinds of snow (crushed ice).

The interior composition can only be guessed. Voyager 2 did not pass very close to Triton, therefore the density, from which a general idea of composition can be made, cannot be determined. A good guess is that Triton is made of ice throughout it's interior, except for a small core of rocky material. There may be a small layer of water inside Triton, however. This depends on how much of Triton is rocky and could help warm Triton. A small layer of water could provide an environment for life. Only more exploration will help us know for sure if these things are possible.

The fact that this moon is made primarily of ice suggests a certain path for it's evolution.


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Triton Composition



This is an image of Triton.
Click on image for full size version (165K JPG)
Image from: NASA
When the Voyager mission flew by Triton, it took the spectra of the surface. The spectra matched that of ice and also several different kinds of snow (crushed ice).

The Voyager spacecraft could not measure the interior of the moons, however. A good guess is that Triton is made of ice throughout it's interior, except for a small core of rocky material at the center. There may be a small layer of water inside Triton too, however this depends upon whether the inside of Triton is warm. A small layer of water could provide an environment for life. Only more exploration will help us know for sure if these things are possible.

The fact that this moon is made primarily of ice suggests a certain path for it's history.


Return to moons


Triton Composition



This is an image of Triton.
Click on image for full size version (165K JPG)
Image from: NASA
Not only ice but several different kinds of snow (crushed ice) have been found on the surface of Triton.

An idea of what the inside of Triton is made of can only be guessed because the Voyager spacecraft could not measure the inside of the moon when it flew by in 1989.

A good guess is that Triton is made of ice, except for a small core of rocky material at the center. There may be a small layer of water inside Triton too, however this depends on whether the inside of Triton is warm. A small layer of water could make an environment where life could be found. Only more exploration will help us know for sure if these things are possible.

The fact that this moon is made primarily of ice suggests a certain path for it's history.

Return to moons



Last modified November 19, 1997 by the Windows Team

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