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.

56:41

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Episode guests

Adeene Denton

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Quick takeaways

Recent research suggests Sputnik Planitia's formation may result from a significant impact rather than the existence of a subsurface ocean.

Dr. Adeene Denton's modeling of oblique impacts reveals insights about the unique elliptical shape of Pluto's Sputnik Planitia region.

The equatorial location of Sputnik Planitia challenges existing theories of impact basins, hinting at complex geological processes beneath Pluto's surface.

Deep dives

Exploring Sputnik Planitia's Origins

The origins of Sputnik Planitia, a prominent feature on Pluto, are examined in the context of potential geological processes. Scientists hypothesize that this heart-shaped area formed as a result of a significant impact rather than a subsurface ocean. The placement of this feature near Pluto's equator raises questions, as impacts typically create features that migrate towards the poles due to mass distribution. Research suggests that the unique location of Sputnik Planitia might indicate complex geological activity beneath its surface.

Intro

4min

Exploring the Geography of Pluto's Heart

2min

The Stunning Geological Complexity of Pluto Revealed

2min

The Splat of Celestial Body Impacts

21min

Impact Dynamics on Pluto's Sputnik Planitia

7min

Understanding Pluto's Geological Behavior

17min

The Mysteries of Aurora Borealis and Historical Discoveries

3min

This week, we investigate the mysteries of Pluto's iconic heart-shaped feature. We explore recent research on the origins of the Sputnik Planitia region and what it can tell us about whether or not the dwarf planet has a subsurface ocean. Our guest, Adeene Denton from the University of Arizona, discusses her team's work investigating oblique impact basins, or "splats," and their implications for planetary formation. Then Bruce Betts, chief scientist at The Planetary Society, joins host Sarah Al-Ahmed for a roundup of the most significant impacts in our Solar System in What's Up.

Discover more at: https://www.planetary.org/planetary-radio/2024-pluto-splat

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