A control network of Triton

Abstract

A control network for Triton has been computed using a bundle‐type analytical triangulation program. The network contains 105 points that were measured on 57 Voyager 2 pictures. The adjustment contained 1010 observation equations and 382 normal equations and resulted in a standard measurement error of 13.36 μm. We determined coordinates of the control points, the camera orientation angles at the times when the pictures were taken, and Triton's mean radius. A separate statistical analysis confirmed Triton's radius to be 1352.6±2.4 km. Attempts to tie the control network around the satellite were unsuccessful because discontinuities exist in high‐resolution coverage between 66° and 289° longitude, north of 38° latitude, and south of 78° latitude.