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    ESA > Space in Images > 2017 > 08 > Titan hidden in its atmosphere

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    Titan hidden in its atmosphere

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    • Title Titan hidden in its atmosphere
    • Released 21/12/2009 9:47 am
    • Copyright ESA
    • Description

      Discovered in 1655 by a Dutch astronomer, Christian Huygens, Titan is Saturn's biggest satellite. It is a really unique and mysterious world hidden under thick layers of haze. The veiled atmosphere primarily composed of nitrogen, a small amount of methane and a little molecular hydrogen is the peculiarity of this moon. 

      Why is Titan a unique celestial body? 

      On the basis of laboratory simulations it appears that organic compounds 'rain' through Titan’s atmosphere and are deposited on its surface. Scientists believe that similar primordial molecules were present on Earth before life appeared about 3.8 billion years ago. 

      ESA’s Huygens probe, by providing scientists with vital data and the best views ever of this region of our solar system, is shedding light on these enigmatic aspects. 

    • Id 382434

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