The Geographic Distribution of Dense-phase O$_2$ on Ganymede

TL;DR

This study maps the distribution of dense-phase molecular oxygen on Ganymede's surface, revealing its concentration at certain latitudes and potential variability, which may relate to magnetic field effects and surface processes.

Contribution

First comprehensive spatial map of Ganymede's surface O$_2$, linking its distribution to magnetic and irradiation effects, and exploring temporal variability.

Findings

O$_2$ concentrated at low- to mid-latitudes of the trailing hemisphere

Evidence of moderate temporal variability in surface O$_2$

Distribution possibly influenced by Ganymede's magnetic field

Abstract

Ground-based spectroscopy of Ganymede's surface has revealed the surprising presence of dense-phase molecular oxygen (O$_2$) via weak absorptions at visible wavelengths. To date, the state and stability of this O$_2$ at the temperatures and pressures of Ganymede's surface are not understood. Its spatial distribution in relation to albedo, expected temperatures, particle irradiation patterns, or composition may provide clues to these unknowns. We present spatially resolved observations of Ganymede's surface O$_2$ obtained with the Hubble Space Telescope and construct the first comprehensive map of its geography. In agreement with the limited spatially resolved data published previously, our map suggests that the condensed O$_2$ is concentrated at the low- to mid-latitudes of the trailing hemisphere, a distribution that may reflect influences of Ganymede's intrinsic magnetic field on the bombardment of its surface by Jovian magnetospheric particles. Overlapping regions from different observations within our dataset also show evidence for moderate temporal variability in the surface O$_2$, but we are unable to distinguish between potential causes with the available data.