Ejecta types on Ganymede and Callisto

Abstract

Ejecta types on Ganymede and Callisto have been identified from Voyager 1 and 2 images. Image resolution used range from approx. 0.6 to approx. 4 km/pxl, which allowed the surveying of almost all of the mappable surface of the two satellites. Seven ejecta classes were identified on Voyager images of Ganymede on the basis of albedo pattern and type of terminus. The ejecta of different terrains on ejecta characteristics were investigated for the most populated ejecta types. Two major ejecta types were identified on Callisto; both have counterparts on Ganymede. Type C1 has a uniformly high albedo and a sharp terminus. Type C2 has a gradational terminus and a moderate albedo. The similarity in ejecta types on Ganymede and Callisto may indicate similarities in the near surface environment of the two satellites, with different ejecta types representing several possible conditions for the impact environment.