On the global distribution of Pluto's atmosphere

by: Trafton, L.; Stern, S. A.

ABSTRACT

The present investigation is relevant to the study of Pluto's current
global and diurnal radiation balance. Strong gravitational tides are
suggested by Charon's close proximity to Pluto (approximately 20,000 km)
and Charon's large relative mass (roughly 0.25 Pluto's mass). Thus, the
Pluto-Charon system replaces the earth-moon system as the best known
example of a double planet. Methane is the only gas positively detected
in Pluto's atmosphere. The tendency of the whole atmosphere to bulge
preferentially toward the subsolar point as a result of the solar heating
of the suface is considered, taking into account the longitudinal and the
latitudinal tide. It is concluded that near perihelion, Pluto's atmosphere
is essentially uniform over Pluto's surface. Its heat capacity by virtue
of the heat of condensation is large enough that eclipses and the diurnal
variation of insolation cause negligible freezing out of atmospheric gases.

Astrophysical Journal, Part 1, ISSN 0004-637X, vol. 267, April 15, 1983,
p. 872-881.