Comparison of space weathering features in three particles from Itokawa. (23rd June 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Burgess, K. D.; Stroud, R. M.
• Other Names: Sandford Scott handlingEditor.
• Is Part Of: Meteoritics & planetary science. Volume 56:Number 6(2021)
• Page Start: 1109
• Page End: 1124
• Publication Date: 2021-06-23
• Subjects: Meteorites -- Periodicals; Planetology -- Periodicals; 523.4
• DOI: 10.1111/maps.13692
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1086-9379

Abstract

Abstract: The return of samples from S‐type asteroid 25143 Itokawa have enabled significant improvements in our understanding of space weathering on asteroids and the link between S‐type asteroids and ordinary chondrites. We report on three new particles, providing details on space weathering of adjacent grains within a particle and several different phases. The features we observe are consistent with formation via irradiation from the solar wind, as opposed to micrometeoroid bombardment. We also see differences in the degree of weathering for grains collected from the two different touchdown locations on the asteroid. Continued analysis of new grains from Itokawa allow us to draw a more complete picture of the variety of space weathering features and the processes that lead to their formation on Itokawa and other airless bodies.