Hubble reveals Uranus's moons have surprising dark sides

Scientists using the Hubble Space Telescope found the leading sides of Uranus's two outer moons are darker than their trailing sides, contradicting previous assumptions. The study examined Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon, revealing unexpected brightness patterns. Researchers found the leading hemispheres of Titania and Oberon were darker, challenging the expected interaction between the moons and Uranus's magnetic field. This discovery suggests dust accumulation from micrometeorites may darken the leading sides of Titania and Oberon. The findings, presented at a recent astronomy meeting, add to the mystery surrounding Uranus.