Surface Composition of Kuiper Belt Object 1993SC

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Abstract
The 1.42- to 2.40-micrometer spectrum of Kuiper belt object 1993SC was measured at the Keck Observatory in October 1996. It shows a strongly red continuum reflectance and several prominent infrared absorption features. The strongest absorptions in 1993SC’s spectrum occur near 1.62, 1.79, 1.95, 2.20, and 2.32 micrometers in wavelength. Features near the same wavelengths in the spectra of Pluto and Neptune’s satellite Triton are due to CH 4 on their surfaces, suggesting the presence of a simple hydrocarbon ice such as CH 4 , C 2 H 6 , C 2 H 4 , or C 2 H 2 on 1993SC. In addition, the red continuum reflectance of 1993SC suggests the presence of more complex hydrocarbons.