Saturn's Atmospheric Structure at Solstice

Computer Science

Scientific paper

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Hst Proposal Id #9354

Scientific paper

We propose to image Saturn near its solstice with the same 22 WFPC2/NICMOS filters which we imaged Saturn near its equinox about six years ago. Additionally, we propose to use the ACS/HRC with its high ultraviolet throughput and its superior spatial resolution. All filters span a wavelength range of a factor of 10, they cover methane band strengths over several orders of magnitude, and they include the center and wings of the hydrogen dipole absorption near 2000 nm. Thus, they probe many atmospheric levels over five scale heights. The 22 WFPC2/NICMOS filters have proven to provide an excellent probe of Saturn's vertical aerosol structure. The spatial resolution yields several hundred resolution elements in latitude which can be grouped into 10-15 distinct zones. The best viewing of Saturn high southern latitudes occurs at its winter solstice which happens during Cycle 11. The three spacecraft which have visited Saturn flew by near Saturn's equinox, and Cassini will miss the solstice too. HST acquired comprehensive data of Saturn near its last equinox in 1995. The proposed observations will expand this data set to Saturn's solstice and thus provide a unique record of its seasonal variation.

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