Voyager 2 image of Despina.

DESPINA - MOON OF NEPTUNE

Despina was a nymph, the daughter of the Greek mythological god Poseidon (Roman equivalent Neptune) and Demeter. It was discovered in 1989 in Voyager 2 images.

Orbit

Despina orbits 52,600 kilometres from Neptune. It travels in nearly the same plane as Neptune's equator (inclination 0.07o) and has a circular orbit (zero eccentricity).

Physical properties

Despina is 150 kilometres across and slightly ovoid. Its mass and density are unknown.

Interior

The interior and composition of Despina is unknown.

Magnetic field

No magnetic field has been detected.

Atmosphere

No atmosphere has been detected, and Despina is unlikely to possess one.

Surface

There are a few hazy surface markings but no details can be made out. The surface is very dark, like Neptune's other small satellites.