Dust and neutral gas modeling of the inner atmospheres of comets

Abstract

This paper summarizes our present, preencounter understanding of the physical and chemical processes controling the inner ( r < 1000 km) region of cometary atmospheres. Special emphasis was attached to compiling a self‐consistent set of governing equations. We are aiming this review at readers who want to understand the present status of the mantle and coma regions and/or who want to develop new, next generation models which will be needed as the large volume of new observational data will become available in the near future.