Water Ice Found on Surface of Comet 67P

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Icy Comet

European Space Agency’s Rosetta spacecraft has discovered water ice on the outer surface of comet 67P. The water ice was detected on the bottom part of the main lobe of the dumbbell–shaped comet in a region called Imhotep.

Rosetta’s Visual and Infrared Thermal Imaging Spectrometer (VIRTIS) detected water ice in two areas on the comet’s Imhotep region. The water ice appeared as noticeably bright patches in visible light that was located on cliff walls and debris falls. Researchers believe that the water ices in two separate locations were created when sun’s heat vaporised the water ice found under the comet’s dust. The remnant water ice may have recondensed and did not leave the surface of the comet.

Scientists believe this phenomenon is because comets fly towards the sun and are hence, exposed to warm temperatures that cause the ice to sublimate or transform directly from solid to gas. What remains are materials similar to rocks, sand and ash on earth. This causes the surface of 67P to appear darker like most of the comets. Similarly, when the comet moves away from the sun, the temperature drops and the water ice condenses, paving the way for a thin layer of frost.


The most wonderful and precious element of universe is the human life which can only be guided by the right knowledge and right attitude. So, here is an ocean of knowledge, both in English and Hindi encompassing every detail and each facet of human life which ‘one must know’ in order to grow and attain the summits of success. A team of around 200 dedicated members is working ceaselessly to turn such a colossal dream into reality. We are confident that this portal will help bring change in people across the world.

Content creation, research, development and execution done in-house at Aatman Innovations.