Work

Comparison of hydration bands between the spectra of carbonaceous chondrites and asteroids: perspectives for mineralogy on Main-Belt Asteroids surfaces

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT We present a comparative spectroscopic analysis of 47 samples, including Main-Belt Asteroids (MBAs), carbonaceous chondrites, and hydrated minerals, focusing on the 0.7, 2.7, and 3.0 $\mu$m hydration bands. Spectral features were extracted and compared to infer the surface mineralogy of MBAs and their alteration history. Our results confirm widespread hydration among C- and X-type asteroids and suggest links with Mg-Fe-rich phyllosilicates found in CM and CI chondrites. Notably, antigorite and clinochrysotile were spectrally matched to several MBAs, implying localized high-temperature aqueous alteration. Discrepancies in band presence indicate varying degrees of thermal metamorphism. These findings support internal aqueous processing and cryovolcanic resurfacing in primitive asteroids. The results are relevant for future mission target selection and asteroid mining prospects.

Source: Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society

DOI: 10.1093/mnras/staf2171

Authors: A Vilchez, R Duffard, M G Spagnuolo, N Pinilla-Alonso

Institutions: Universidad de Granada, Instituto de Astrofísica de Andalucía, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Universidad de Oviedo

Language: English

Topic: Astro and Planetary Science

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,046

Funders: Brown University, Universidad de Granada