Orbital evolution and origin of the Martian satellites
The orbital evolution of the Martian satellites is considered from a dynamical point of view. Celestial mechanics relevant to the calculation of satellite orbital evolution is introduced and the physical parameters to be incorporated in the modeling of tidal dissipation are discussed. Results of extrapolating the satellite orbits backward and forward in time are presented and compared with those of other published work. Collision probability calculations and results for the Martian satellite system are presented and discussed. The implications of these calculations for the origin scenarios of the satellites are assessed. It is concluded that Deimos in its present form could not have been captured, for if it had been, it would have collided with Phobos at some point. An accretion model is therefore preferred over capture, although such a model consistent with the likely carbonaceous chondritic composition of the satellites has yet to be established. 91 references.
- Research Organization:
- Australian National Lab., Canberra, Australia
- OSTI ID:
- 6468565
- Journal Information:
- Icarus; (United States), Journal Name: Icarus; (United States) Vol. 55; ISSN ICRSA
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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