An analysis of the reflection spectrum of Jupiter from 1500 A to 1740 A

Abstract

The Jovian reflection spectrum was modeled to determine the mixing ratios of C2H2, the upper limits to mixing ratios of C2H4, C4H2, and NH3, to detect the amount of dust in the stratosphere, and to measure the intensity of the H2 Lyman band dayglow emission. Data were gathered by the IUE spacecraft in the wavelength regions 1500 A to 1740 A, concentrating in the 10 mbar pressure region. Detailed Jupiter model parameters are provided. The mixing ratios of C2H2, C2H6, and C4H2 were found to be near 10 to the -7th, 6.6 x 10 to the -6th, and 2.9 x 10 to the -10th, respectively. Comparisons made with the Voyager 1 and 2 data indicated that the scale height of C2H2 in the 150-10 mbar region is double that of the bulk atmosphere. The data are significant for photochemical modeling of the upper Jovian atmosphere.