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The strangest satellites in the solar system.

Authors :
Jewitt, David
Sheppard, Scott S.
Kleyna, Jan
D. J.
S. S. S.
J. K.
Source :
Scientific American. Aug2006, Vol. 295 Issue 2, p40-47. 8p. 5 Color Photographs, 1 Black and White Photograph, 2 Diagrams.
Publication Year :
2006

Abstract

This article discusses the discovery and investigation of "irregular" satellites. These satellites follow planets in large, elliptical orbits, in contrast with standard satellites such as the Earth's moon which usually have tight, circular, equatorial orbits. A wave of theoretical work surrounding the movements of these celestial bodies has resulted from their discovery with the use of advanced digital detectors. INSET: Watchers of the Skies.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00368733
Volume :
295
Issue :
2
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Scientific American
Publication Type :
Periodical
Accession number :
21506598
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1038/scientificamerican0806-40