Triton

Of Neptune’s moons, Triton is the largest, and the only moon in the solar system with a retrograde orbit. Due to this orbit and a composition that is comparable to Pluto’s, scientists believe that the moon may have been a dwarf planet from the Kuiper Belt, captured in Neptune’s orbit. The mass of ice on its surface and below ground can produce both water and oxygen—one advantage the moon does have. Tectonic activity on the moon, with nitrogen gas geysers, makes work directly on the surface perilous, but underground habitats in stable tectonic areas are thought to be safe.
Only a hardy and motley band of astronomers and prospectors live on Triton—the furthest any human has ever lived from Earth. The deep astronomy labs are responsible for charting into the unexplored reaches of the galaxy, while the prospectors are exploring mining possibilities on Neptune’s moons.

Type

Planetoid / Moon

Location under

Neptune

Owning Organization

The United Nations

Contested By

• The Outer Planets Alliance