Near-Infrared Spectroscopy of the Bright Kuiper Belt Object 2000 EB173

Abstract

We have obtained a near-infrared spectrum of the bright Kuiper Belt object 2000 EB173; the spectrum appears featureless. The spectrum has a sufficient signal-to-noise ratio to rule out the 1.5 and 2.0 mm absorption from water ice even at the low level seen in the Centaur Chariklo. In addition, we can rule out a 2.3 mm absorption at the level seen in the Centaur Pholus. Subject headings: infrared: solar system — Kuiper Belt objects — minor planets, asteroids 1.