Infrared spectroscopy of the largest known trans-neptunian object 2001 KX76

Abstract

We report complete near-infrared (0.9-2.4 $\hat{I}¼$m) spectral observations of the largest know trans-neptunian objects (TNO) 28976 = 2001 KX${}_{76}$ taken in two different nights using the new Near Infrared Camera Spectrometer (NICS) attached to the 3.56m Telescopio Nazionale Galileo (TNG). The spectra are featureless and correspond to a neutral colored object. Our observations indicate that the surface of 2001 KX${}_{76}$ is probably highly evolved due to long term irradiation, and that collisional resurfacing processes have not played an important role in its evolution.

1 Latex file, 2 postscript files. A&A in press