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Degas

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description Degas Overview

Degas is an impact crater located on the planet Mercury, named after the French artist Edgar Degas. It is distinguished by its extensive system of bright, bluish rays that radiate outward from the impact site. These rays are composed of freshly excavated subsurface material that has not yet been darkened by space weathering. The crater's distinct color and prominent ray system make it a visually prominent feature in images of Mercury's surface.

help Degas FAQ

Where is Degas crater located?

Degas is an impact crater on Mercury. It is named after the French artist Edgar Degas.

What is unusual about Degas crater?

Degas has an extensive system of bright bluish rays spreading from the impact site. The rays are made from freshly excavated subsurface material.

Why do Degas crater's rays look blue?

The rays expose relatively fresh material from below Mercury's weathered surface. Their bluish appearance contrasts with the darker surrounding terrain.

Which spacecraft photographed Degas crater?

NASA's MESSENGER spacecraft mapped Mercury in detail and captured imagery of its craters and ray systems. Degas is one of the named features studied during that mission.

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