Pluto System

Pluto structure (Very Large File: 30 MB). Open for a full visualization that can be explored.

• The first image is of Pluto's Hill sphere. 

• The second image shows Pluto's moons and their orbits.

• The third image shows Pluto's internal structure.

Below is a full description of the visualization. 

Overall

Our Pluto visualization is scientifically accurate and comprehensive. It shows detailed layers representing Pluto's core, mantle, crust, haze layer, atmosphere, and Hill sphere. The implementation demonstrates Pluto's unique characteristics as a dwarf planet and provides outstanding educational content based on New Horizons mission discoveries.

Core

The core representation (radius fraction 0.70, approximately 70% of Pluto's diameter) is scientifically accurate based on current models. The description correctly notes the dense, rocky core likely composed of silicates and iron with a diameter of about 1,700 km. The discussion of radioactive decay heating (Uranium-238, Uranium-235, Thorium-232, Potassium-40) and the estimated core temperature of ~1000K is scientifically sound and reflects current theoretical understanding.

Mantle

The mantle visualization (radius fraction 0.99) is accurate. The explanation of the water ice mantle with a potential subsurface ocean 100-180 km thick is consistent with New Horizons findings and theoretical models. The detailed layer structure description (inner icy layer, subsurface ocean, outer icy lithosphere ranging from 45 to several hundred kilometers) reflects current scientific understanding of differentiated ice dwarf planets.

Crust (Surface Layer)

The description accurately covers Pluto's surface composition (primarily nitrogen ice >98%, with methane and carbon monoxide), the presence of water-ice mountains comparable to Earth's Rocky Mountains, and geological features like Sputnik Planitia. The discussion of surface colors, the "heart" (Tombaugh Regio), and dark regions like Cthulhu Macula is scientifically accurate and current.

Haze Layer

The haze layer description (radius fraction 1.17, extending ~200 km above surface) is scientifically excellent. The explanation of haze formation through photochemical processes, the 20+ distinct layers observed by New Horizons, and the blue color in backlit images is accurate. The detailed discussion of tholin formation, particle settling, and the horizontal extent of layers is an accurate description of Pluto's atmospheric chemistry.

Atmosphere

The atmosphere visualization (radius fraction 1.43) accurately represents Pluto's surprisingly extensive atmosphere. The description correctly notes the thin atmosphere (~1/100,000th Earth's pressure), composition (primarily N₂ with CH₄ and CO), and dynamic seasonal behavior. The discussion of sublimation/condensation cycles with orbital distance and the counterintuitive temperature inversion is scientifically accurate.

Hill Sphere

The Hill sphere visualization (radius fraction 4,685, approximately 5.99 million km or 0.04 AU) is scientifically accurate. The description correctly explains how all five of Pluto's moons (Charon, Styx, Nix, Kerberos, Hydra) reside within this sphere and provides good comparative context with Earth's Hill sphere volume.