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Infrared spectroscopy of the largest known trans-neptunian object 2001 KX76

J. Licandro·F. Ghinassi·L. Testi
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Abstract

We report complete near-infrared (0.9-2.4 $μ$m) spectral observations of the largest know trans-neptunian objects (TNO) 28976 = 2001 KX$_{76}$ taken in two different nights using the new Near Infrared Camera Spectrometer (NICS) attached to the 3.56m Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG). The spectra are featureless and correspond to a neutral colored object. Our observations indicate that the surface of 2001 KX$_{76}$ is probably highly evolved due to long term irradiation, and that collisional resurfacing processes have not played an important role in its evolution.

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J. Licandro, F. Ghinassi, L. Testi. 2002-04-05. Infrared spectroscopy of the largest known trans-neptunian object 2001 KX76. https://doi.org/10.1051/0004-6361%3A20020533

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