Kyoto University · Engineering
Professor Ryosuke Nakamura's research lab specializes in planetary science and astronomical spectroscopy, focusing on the surface composition and physical properties of trans-Neptunian objects, particularly Pluto and its moon Charon. Using advanced near-infrared spectroscopy from ground-based telescopes, the lab investigates the distribution and abundance of ices—such as nitrogen, methane, and carbon monoxide—on distant solar system bodies. The lab also explores the seasonal and spatial variations in these ices, contributing to our understanding of the surface evolution and surface-atmosphere interactions in the outer solar system. Their work combines observational astronomy with data analysis to reveal insights into the formation and dynamics of icy bodies in the Kuiper Belt.
Figures are computed from collected data and may differ slightly.
We present the results of the near-infrared spectroscopy of the Pluto-Charon system, conducted in the K band at two different sub-Earth longitudes. The spatially resolved images resulted in separated spectra with a spectral resolution of approximately 530. The spectrum of Charon showed a broad absorption feature at 2 μm during both orbital phases, suggesting a uniform distribution of water ice. In the separated spectrum of Pluto obtained in June, we confirmed the absorption bands of solid methan
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