Detection of the Forbidden SO a1Δ→X3Σ− Rovibronic Transition on Io at 1.7 μm

We report the discovery of the forbidden electronic a1Δ→X3Σ− transition of the SO radical on Io at 1.7 μm with the W. M. Keck II telescope on 24 September 1999 (UT), while the satellite was eclipsed by Jupiter. The shape of the SO emission band suggests a rotational temperature of ∼1000 K; i.e., the gas is extremely hot. We interpret the observed emission rate of ∼2×1027 photons s−1 to be caused by SO molecules in the excited a1Δ state being directly ejected from the vent at a thermodynamic quenching temperature of ∼1500 K, assuming a SO/SO2 abundance ratio of ∼0.1 and a total venting rate of ∼1031 molecules s−1 (Strobel and Wolven 2001, Astrophys. Space Sci. 277, 1–17). The shape of our complete (1.6–2.5 μm) spectrum suggests that the volcano Loki contains a small (∼2 km2) hot spot at 960±12 K, as well as a larger (∼50 km2) area at 640±5 K.