Are large Trojan asteroids salty? An observational, theoretical, and experimental study

► We model the Trojan spectra consistently in the near infrared and the thermal infrared. ► The Trojans' surfaces may consist of silicates, absorbing materials suspended in a salt matrix. ► Substantial brine in Trojans could be produced as a consequence of hydrothermal circulation. ► The salt crust is a result of sublimation of subsurface frozen brine exposed by impacts.