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Callisto’s surface

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Intro to Astronomy

Definition

Callisto's surface is the outermost layer of Jupiter's moon, Callisto, covered in ice and heavily cratered. It is one of the most ancient and least altered surfaces in the Solar System.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Callisto's surface is the most heavily cratered in the Solar System, indicating its old age.
  2. It features a mix of ice and rock with a high albedo due to its icy composition.
  3. Valhalla Basin is one of the largest impact craters on Callisto, spanning roughly 3,800 km.
  4. The lack of tectonic activity on Callisto suggests it has never experienced significant geological change.
  5. Callisto's surface has a thin atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide.

Review Questions

  • What makes Callisto’s surface one of the most ancient in the Solar System?
  • Why does Callisto have such a high albedo?
  • What is significant about Valhalla Basin on Callisto?

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