Numerical simulations on the formation of Ultima Thule
Abstract
We use hydrodynamical simulations to show that the Kuiper-Belt object (486958) 2014 MU69 (Ultima-Thule) can be formed for a plausible range of initial parameters of the collision. Since the impact velocity has to be relatively low, the shape is undeformed for most of the runs, while high impact velocities lead to disruptional collisions. The resulting rotational period is compatible with the observations if the impact angle is around 40 degree.
- Publication:
-
EPSC-DPS Joint Meeting 2019
- Pub Date:
- September 2019
- Bibcode:
- 2019EPSC...13.1768W