Detailed Analysis of a Surface Feature on Comet p/ Halley
Wilhelm, K.; Keller, H. U.; Schwarz, G.; Huebner, W. F.; Kramm, R.; Craubner, H.; Delamere, A.; Gobel, M.; Gonano, M.; Mikusch, E.; Reitsema, H.; Whipple, F. L.
Germany, United States
Abstract
The surface of the nucleus of comet P/Halley is visible on many images taken by the Halley Multicolour Camera on board the Giotto spacecraft. A number of structural features like "mountains" or "surface dips" are clearly discernible. This paper outlines the methods that can be applied to analyze a surface feature with the aim of obtaining its characteristics. A relatively large craterlike surface feature is selected for detailed analysis and an attempt is made to determine its size and shape as well as to assess the attainable accuracy. The surface topography is computed using a photoclinometric approach, while dimensions are determined based on apparent object sizes and an estimate of aspect angle.