Ultraviolet spectra of asteroids
Butterworth, P. S.; Hunt, G. E.; Moore, V.; Meadows, A. J.; Willis, D. M.
United Kingdom
Abstract
Spectra over the range 2,100-3,200 Å have been obtained for the three largest asteroids-Ceres, Pallas and Vesta-using the International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) satellite1. These represent the first detailed UV reflectivity data for asteroids. They extend the numerous measurements already carried out in the visible and IR2,3 to shorter wavelengths, and so enlarge on previous studies of both the classification and the mineralogy of asteroids4.