Plausible surface models for Titan

Details Plausible surface models for Titan Plausible surface models for Titan

Apr 1992

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=1992esasp.338..233l&link_type=abstract

In ESA, Symposium on Titan p 233-239 (SEE N92-32348 23-91)

Computer Science

1

Cosmochemistry, Environment Models, Oceans, Planetary Environments, Planetary Surfaces, Satellite Atmospheres, Surface Properties, Titan, Aerosols, Cassini Mission, Hydrocarbons, Methane, Radar Tracking, Space Probes, Voyager Project

Scientific paper

Current understanding of the nature of Titan's surface and some new ideas for explaining the curious radar returns from Saturn's largest satellite are reviewed. Pre-Voyager models of the surface, based largely on cosmochemistry and the discovery of atmospheric methane, allowed for a range of possibilities, including pure methane oceans. The Voyager 1 flyby ruled out this last possibility, replacing it with compelling observational arguments in favor of a mixed light hydrocarbon and nitrogen ocean. Ground based radar observations indicated a surprisingly reflective surface which is inconsistent with a hydrocarbon ocean and more reminiscent of the Galilean Satellites. Nonetheless, passive radiometric measurements of the surface do not support the notion that Titan's surface is like that of the Galilean satellites. One of the arguments against hydrocarbon oceans reflecting radar energy is that most solid, complex hydrocarbon and nitriles will be denser than the liquid and sink. Nonetheless, many of the aerosol species will coagulate in highly nonspherical patterns, and some species probably polymerize in long chains. Such chains will have very low sedimendation velocities in the ocean and may remain near the surface through ocean mixing process. The prospect of an oceanic 'soup' of polar polymers acting as volume reflectors at radio wevelengths suggests that the interpretation of radar observations needs evaluation.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Plausible surface models for 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 Plausible surface models for Titan, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Plausible surface models for Titan will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1734641