Observations by the James Webb Space Telescope have revealed new insights into the composition of Charon's surface, including the detection of carbon dioxide and hydrogen peroxide.
The detection of hydrogen peroxide indicates the various irradiation processes that Charon has undergone, while carbon dioxide may be a remnant from its formation over 4.5 billion years ago.
Charon is distinguished as the solar system's largest moon relative to its planet, being about half the diameter of Pluto and an eighth its mass.
Webb's observations enhance previous data from NASA's New Horizons mission and demonstrate its ability to observe a wider range of wavelengths than past technologies.
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