Planetary Radio: Space Exploration, Astronomy and Science Splat or subsurface ocean? The mysterious positioning of Pluto’s heart
Oct 30, 2024
In this engaging discussion, Adeene Denton, a research scientist specializing in giant impacts, shares her insights into the mysterious heart-shaped feature of Pluto. The conversation explores whether Sputnik Planitia might hide a subsurface ocean beneath its icy surface. Denton elaborates on the intriguing role of oblique impacts in planetary formation and how they shape geological features. The talk is complemented by Bruce Betts, who rounds up the significant impacts across our Solar System, leaving listeners fascinated by the complexities of Pluto and beyond.
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Intro
00:00 • 4min
Exploring the Geography of Pluto's Heart
04:02 • 2min
The Stunning Geological Complexity of Pluto Revealed
06:09 • 2min
The Splat of Celestial Body Impacts
08:00 • 21min
Impact Dynamics on Pluto's Sputnik Planitia
29:18 • 7min
Understanding Pluto's Geological Behavior
36:08 • 17min
The Mysteries of Aurora Borealis and Historical Discoveries
53:32 • 3min