CN emission in comet LINEAR (C/2000 WM1)

Small part of the UVES spectrum of Comet LINEAR (C/2000 WM1) with an emission band (ultraviolet light at wavelength 390 nm) from CN molecules in the comet's atmosphere. The emission lines are produced by absorption of the solar light by these molecules, followed by re-emission of lines of specific wavelengths. This physical process is known as "resonance-fluorescence" — it is the same process that causes glowing teeth and shirts in a Disco. The upper panel displays the "raw" spectrum; the lower is the "extracted" spectrum, now clearly displaying the individual emission lines.

Credit:

ESO

About the Image

Id:eso0329b
Type:Collage
Release date:12 September 2003
Related releases:eso0329
Size:1004 x 696 px

About the Object

Name:Comet LINEAR
Type:Solar System : Interplanetary Body : Comet
Category:Solar System

Image Formats

Large JPEG
136.7 KB
Screensize JPEG
125.5 KB

Colours & filters

BandWavelengthTelescope
Ultraviolet
Near-UV
390 nmVery Large Telescope
UVES