DLR Vesta: an asteroid full of surprises

South pole centred colour coded digital terrain model of the 'basin'

The latest 3D images, which show the whole asteroid, make something very clear – Vesta holds quite a number of challenges for the scientists on the Dawn team.

"For example, we can see a very large impact crater in the south polar region, the likes of which we have never seen before," emphasises Jaumann.

The shape and structure of the crater differ from every other impact crater in the Solar System.

"We are unable to find similar craters on other bodies, and cannot yet explain exactly what has caused it."

Another critical question faced by the planetary scientists is whether or not there has been volcanism on Vesta.

The numerous impact craters are not making this easy for scientists. "Any evidence of volcanic activity has been covered by impact ejecta and our current challenge is to find traces of volcanic deposits," explains Jaumann.

Dark material associated with craters that appears in some of the 3D images might provide the scientists with information on potential volcanic activity. But it could also be the remnants of the impacting body, in which case, the search for signs of volcanism must continue.

More information on Vesta at DLR Portal - Vesta - an asteroid full of surprises