Methane Spectroscopy in Planetary Studies: Overtone Absorption in Methane by Intracavity Laser Techniques

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Drs. Atkinson, Lunine, and Hunten at the University of Arizona will use a special laboratory technique to study detailed characteristics of the absorption spectrum of methane. The bands selected for study are of interest to astrophysical and planetary studies. The measurement of molecular abundances in the atmospheres of the giant planets of the Solar System is a major astrophysical challenge. Such measurements provide information on the abundances of elements in those planets, and hence constrain scenarios of their origin. In addition, the abundances of major constituents such as water or methane determine the dynamics of the atmospheres of these planets. Interpretation of astronomical observations of methane from the planets has been hindered by lack of appropriate laboratory studies. The research of Drs. Atkinson, Lunine, and Hunten will provide needed laboratory data.