Physics
Scientific paper
Jul 2006
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2006p%26ss...54..685t&link_type=abstract
Planetary and Space Science, Volume 54, Issue 7, p. 685-694.
Physics
10
Scientific paper
Possible trajectories of passive balloons in Titan's troposphere are simulated with the instantaneous wind field predicted by a GCM (general circulation model). In most areas the basic motion of a balloon is a predominantly eastward or westward drift, depending on altitude, latitude and season of the balloon release point. Some meridional oscillation is always superposed on this basic motion, resulting in a wavy trajectory, with a maximum extent (of 40) at high latitudes of the winter hemisphere. As a general rule, the meridional oscillation can be maximised if a balloon is deployed in altitudes and latitudes where the mean zonal wind is eastward and smaller than the phase speed of Saturn's gravitational tide on Titan. A balloon's groundtrack does not repeat as it makes successive circuits around Titan, but rather makes a spiral or braided pattern. The summer pole is rather difficult to access for a balloon not directly introduced there because of small meridional oscillation, while the winter pole can be readily accessed and left several times. A preferred zonal drift direction can be achieved by choosing a proper altitude and hemisphere, but choosing a preferred meridional direction is not possible.
Lorenz Ralph D.
Tokano Tetsuya
No associations
LandOfFree
GCM simulation of balloon trajectories on Titan does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with GCM simulation of balloon trajectories on Titan, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and GCM simulation of balloon trajectories on Titan will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1617327