Ground-based High-Resolution Imaging of Mercury

Abstract

Images obtained during the 1974–1975 Mariner 10 flybys of Mercury revealed nearly 50% of the surface of the planet at very high spatial resolutions. Since then, Mercury's close proximity to the Sun has foiled nearly all ground-based and space-based attempts to achieve high-resolution images of the remainder of the planet. We have used a novel technique to obtain nearly diffraction-limited images of Mercury using the Mount Wilson Observatory 60 inch (1.5 m) reflecting telescope. These images are unique in that they show a portion of Mercury that was not imaged during the Mariner 10 mission, including a bright, possibly impact-related feature in the northern hemisphere, as well as other prominent albedo markings across the disk.