The Mysteries of Uranus

The mysteries surrounding the interior composition of Uranus continue to perplex scientists. Unlike the more straightforward layered structures observed on other gas giants, Uranus presents an enigmatic profile that raises critical questions: Is it composed of distinctly differentiated layers dominated by a frozen mantle, or does it have smooth gradients in composition?

NASA's Uranus Orbiter and Probe Mission

To address these uncertainties, NASA is gearing up for its ambitious Uranus Orbiter and Probe (UOP) mission, which has been prioritized in the Planetary Science and Astrobiology Survey for 2023-2032. This mission seeks to provide invaluable data by measuring Uranus's gravity and magnetic fields, thereby illuminating the planet's elusive interior structure.

Advancements in Planetary Science: The CORGI Model

Recent advancements in planetary science have led to the development of CORGI, a new model designed to analyze the gravity and interior composition of planets. This model suggests that high degrees of mixing in Uranus's interior are essential to align with the gravity measurements obtained by Voyager 2. These findings indicate that empirical models, which feature smooth density profiles and extensive mixing, successfully replicate the gravitational harmonics observed.

Layered Models and Elemental Mass Fraction