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| Pluto - New Horizons Image |
After nine and a half years, and over 3,740,000,000 km travelled, the New Horizons space prob began its close approach to pluto. This small little space rock has captured the hearts of mankind since first discovered in 1930, as the ninth planet in our humble solar system. Even after being downgraded from prestigious status of planet, to only a dwarf planet title, millions were still eagerly awaiting to see the her close up appearance.
And finally, the first ever images of pluto's surface were received in mid July, detailing the intricate surface. However more stunning images were yet to come, delivering interesting findings with them.
With an orbit so far out from the sun, it's not surprising pluto's surface experiences extremely low temperatures, resulting in an icy crust. Although pluto was known to be an icy maiden before the New Horizons flyby, the characteristics of the ice layer were a mystery until only this month. Below is the latest high-resolution image of pluto's surface, revealing the several blocks of icy crust formed against the nitrogen-rich ice shores of nearby mountains.
So why are these images so important in investigating pluto's surface?
It is because the mountains themselves appear to show crushed materials which has been pushed up in-between the ridges. This could of been coursed by the blocks of icy plains moving back and forth, and presents many questions into this movement to be further explored, hoping to reveal the secrets within Pluto's icy heart.
- Stay Curious
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