Why image Uranus

Abstract

Ratio picture techniques which enhance color or polarization contrasts are proposed for Uranus imagery on the MJU79 mission. Currently available low-resolution pictures of Uranus are assessed, and specific objectives of the fly-by are described, including exploratory imaging, measurement of fundamental properties (rotation period, rotation axis orientation, diameter), and examination of atmospheric properties. An attempt is made to predict the aspect of Uranus from current knowledge about its atmosphere. It is proposed that the imaging system should emphasize photo-polarimetric observations between 5500 and 10,000 A if the planet alone is to be imaged, or it should be a high-resolution system based on the MJS one if the satellites will also be imaged. Performance of a possible high-resolution system at Uranus is assessed.