The equator of Vesta asteroid was photographed by the Dawn probe. High definition photos and descriptions are available on the project’s site.
Dark hill on the surface of the asteroid is of great interest to scientists. It looks dark on different photos, regardless of the shooting angle. It is likely that this is its natural color, and not a result of light and shadow effects. Scientists are discussing possible mechanisms of formation of the hill.
The photograph was taken on September 20, 2011, but only published now. When taking the image Dawn was at an altitude of 673 kilometers above the surface of the asteroid. The resolution of the photograph is about 66 meters per pixel.
Scientists working with the Dawn probe gave a report on the planetary science conference EPSC-DPS in French city of Nantes in early October. They reported that they have found the second largest mountain in the solar system on Vesta. The exact height of the peak, which is located on asteroid’s south pole, is not yet determined, but scientists believe it is “almost as high as the Olympus volcano on Mars” (the height of the volcano is 21 km).
Dawn probe was launched into space on September 27, 2007. It reached the orbit of Vesta – the second largest asteroid in the Solar System on July 16, 2011. Its mission will last approximately until 2015. During this time, the device should examine the relief of Vesta, its composition and determine the history of the asteroid.
