Optical observations of Jupiter obtained during the encounter with Com
et Shoemaker-Levy 9 are analyzed. The time dependences of the intensit
y of visible and infrared radiation caused by the impact were obtained
during direct optical observations of Jupiter made by the Galileo spa
cecraft. Subsequent ground-based observations near Jupiter's limb regi
stered a shining structure with peculiar optical properties. Typically
, the impact of cometary fragments produced three flash-like peaks on
the lightcurve as seen from Earth. An explosive model of energy releas
e as the cometary fragments slow in the jovian atmosphere is shown to
adequately explain the data obtained. (C) 1996 Academic Press, Inc.