This is an image of Triton.
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NASA

Triton

Triton was discovered by W. Lassell in 1846. Of the 8 moons, it is the 2nd farthest from Neptune, with a standoff distance of 354,800 km.

Triton may be one of the largest of the icy moons, is comparable to Europa, with a diameter of 2700 km (1800 miles). 1800 miles is about half the distance across the United States.

Triton is very interesting, it has a unique and fascinating surface, and is one of the few moons with the possibility for a weak atmosphere and an environment suitable for life. Triton is also unusual for its retrograde orbit. Because Voyager 2 did not pass very close to Triton, it was not determined whether Triton is composed completely of ice, or is a rocky moon with an icy surface.

Last modified April 22, 2009 by Randy Russell.

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