Abstract
Abstract The first interstellar object to be observed in our solar system, 1I/2017 U1 ’Oumuamua, combines the lack of observable cometary activity with an extra-gravitational acceleration. This has given rise to several mutually exclusive explanations based on different assumptions in the material composition of ’Oumuamua. We show how a combination of observations in the infrared and optical spectra may serve to distinguish between these explanations once another object with ’Omuamua-like properties comes close enough to Earth. This possibility is linked to the widely different thermal properties of the different material models that have been proposed. Developing a model for the thermal conduction and infrared signal from a fractal model, we compare predictions of the infrared signal with that from standard thermal models that assume ’Oumuamua to be either a solid piece of rock/ice or a thin sheet.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
