Discovery of seven volcanic outbursts on Io from an IRTF observation campaign 2016 to 2022
Christian D. Tate, Julie A. Rathbun, Alexander G. Hayes, John R., Spencer, Madeline Pettine

TL;DR
This paper reports the discovery of seven new energetic volcanic outbursts on Io from 2016 to 2022 using near-infrared observations, expanding understanding of Io's volcanic activity and recurrence patterns.
Contribution
It introduces simplified criteria for thermal detection of volcanic outbursts and documents new recurring eruption sites, enhancing the dataset of Io's volcanic activity.
Findings
Seven new outbursts discovered, increasing known events from 18 to 25.
All outbursts occurred on Io's trailing hemisphere.
Identified a new recurring eruption site at Acala Fluctus.
Abstract
This study analyzes near-infrared measurements of Io, Jupiter's moon, observed over 170 nights from 2016 to early 2022 using the NASA Infrared Telescope Facility (IRTF). During this period, seven new volcanic outbursts, the most energetic volcanic events on Io, were discovered and characterized, increasing the total number of observed outburst events from 18 to 25. We also present simplified criteria for the thermal detection of an outburst, requiring it to be both confined to a specific location of Io and above a threshold intensity in the Lp-band (3.8 micron). Our measurements use 2 to 5 micron photometry in eclipse, Jupiter occultation, and reflected sunlight. In addition to extending the observational dataset of Io's dynamic activity, these data provide insights into the temporal and spatial distribution of outbursts on Io. Notably, all seven outbursts were detected in Io's…
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Taxonomy
TopicsAstro and Planetary Science · Isotope Analysis in Ecology · Planetary Science and Exploration
