http://arxiv.org/abs/2305.13234
In this work we present, for the first time, infrared spectra of Titan from the Spitzer Space Telescope ($2004-2009$). The data are from both the short wavelength-low resolution (SL, $5.13-14.29\mathrm{\mu m}, R\sim60-127$) and short wavelength-high resolution channels (SH, $9.89 – 19.51\mathrm{\mu m}, R\sim600$) showing the emissions of CH${4}$, C${2}$H${2}$, C${2}$H${4}$, C${2}$H${6}$, C${3}$H${4}$, C${3}$H${6}$, C${3}$H${8}$, C${4}$H${2}$, HCN, HC${3}$N, and CO${2}$. We compare the results obtained for Titan from Spitzer to those of the Cassini Composite Infrared Spectrometer (CIRS) for the same time period, focusing on the $16.35-19.35\mathrm{\mu m}$ wavelength range observed by the SH channel but impacted by higher noise levels in CIRS observations. We use the SH data to provide estimated haze extinction cross-sections for the $16.67-17.54\mathrm{\mu m}$ range that are missing in previous studies. We conclude by identifying spectral features in the $16.35-19.35\mathrm{\mu m}$ wavelength range, including two prominent emission features at 16.39 and $17.35\mathrm{\mu m}$, that could be analyzed further through upcoming James Webb Space Telescope Cycle 1 observations with the Mid-Infrared Instrument ($5.0-28.3\mathrm{\mu m}, R\sim1500-3500$). We also highlight gaps in current spectroscopic knowledge of molecular bands, including candidate trace species such as C${60}$ and detected trace species such as C${3}$H${6}$, that could be addressed by theoretical and laboratory study.
B. Coy, C. Nixon, N. Rowe-Gurney, et. al.
Tue, 23 May 23
77/77
Comments: Accepted to Planetary Science Journal April 28, 2023