Showing papers by "John Stansberry published in 1996"
TL;DR: In this paper, a model for producing atmospheric CH4 mixing ratios larger than would be expected from simple vapor pressure equilibrium over a solid solution of N2 and CH4 is described.
56 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the Hapke theory is used to calculate the emissivity of a semi-infinite layer of granular N2 ice with CH4 and CO as contaminants.
43 citations
01 Sep 1996
TL;DR: A stellar-occultation light curve for Triton shows asymmetry that can be understood if Tris's middle atmosphere is distorted from spherical symmetry as mentioned in this paper, which could be caused by an unrealistic internal mass distribution or highly supersonic zonal winds.
Abstract: A stellar-occultation light curve for Triton shows asymmetry that can be understood if Triton's middle atmosphere is distorted from spherical symmetry. Although a globally oblate model can explain the data, the inferred atmospheric flattening is so large that it could be caused only by an unrealistic internal mass distribution or highly supersonic zonal winds. Cyclostrophic winds confined to a jet near Triton's northern or southern limbs (or both) could also be responsible for the details of the light curve, but such winds are required to be slightly supersonic. Hazes and clouds in the atmosphere are unlikely to have caused the asymmetry in the light curve.