Cratering on Icy Bodies

Abstract

This chapter covers impacts on ices. Possible outcomes of impacts include both cratering and catastrophic disruption (i.e., where the target body breaks apart in the impact). Both of these are described in laboratory experiments and discussed in a Solar System context. Other physical phenomena that occur during impact (light flash and ionization) are briefly described. As well as this, a general description of cratering is given, along with examples of the impact speeds typical of those for icy bodies in space. Also included is a discussion of how laboratory experiments and modelling are carried out (what type of facilities are used and what they can achieve). This is followed by discussion of real impacts on icy bodies such as satellites of outer planets and comet nuclei. Physical problems that complicate the outcomes of impact events such as the porosity of target bodies (e.g. impacts on comets) are discussed.