NASA images show Methane snow on Pluto peaks

NASA's New Horizons team has discovered a chain of mountains covered in methane snow. Yes, methane, the primary component in natural gas on Earth. Majestic peaks cloaked in frozen flatulence.

These snow-covered peaks are in the Cthulhu range, which stretches halfway around the dwarf planet's equator at more than 1,800 miles. (A bit larger than the state of Alaska). This mountain range stretches for 260 miles, and the upper slopes of the highest peaks are coated with bright material, which stands out against the deep red color of the plain. Examination of images captured by New Horizons' historic flyby in July 2015 suggests the bright material is mostly made of methane ice.

Scientists say what they see as snow, is actually frozen methane condensed on Pluto’s "Cthulhu" (pronounced kuh-THU-lu) peaks."Cthulhu" is one of the most notable on the tiny world, stretching nearly halfway around Pluto's equator. Its appearance is characterized by a dark surface which scientists believe is covered with complex molecules that form, when methane is exposed to sunlight. The latest images show a reddish mountain range. The highest peaks are covered with a bright material that contrasts sharply with the dark red color of the surrounding plains.

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