Galileo NIMS Observations of Io

Abstract

The Near Infrared Mapping Spectometer (NIMS) on the Galileo spacecraft has been observing the volcanic Jovian satellite Io at regular intervals since June 1996. These infrared observations have allowed detailed mapping of the distribution and grain size of sulfur dioxide on Io’s surface, identification of volcanic centers, mapping of the distribution of hot spots, and investigations into the style and evolution of individual volcanic eruptions.