Mathematics – Logic
Scientific paper
Sep 2009
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009dps....41.1612m&link_type=abstract
American Astronomical Society, DPS meeting #41, #16.12
Mathematics
Logic
Scientific paper
Ganymede is the largest satellite in the solar system, and is one of only three solid bodies in the solar system that is known to possess an internally generated magnetic field. This field is contained within Jupiter's strong field, creating a unique laboratory for studying magnetic reconnection and other magnetospheric interaction processes. The magnetic field also provides shielding of part of Ganymede's surface against irradiation by charged particles, providing a repository for long-term storage of material from other moons, and a unique environment to understand the effects of space weathering on icy surfaces. Ganymede's interior is highly differentiated, and probably contains an internal ocean sandwiched between different phases of ice. The internal structure of Ganymede, as compared to its almost-twin Callisto, may offer important clues to the initial formation conditions of the Galilean satellites. Two thirds of Ganymede has been resurfaced through some combination of tectonic and cryovolcanic processes, and this extensive "grooved terrain” serves as a touchstone for understanding tectonically modified surfaces on many other icy satellites. Ganymede's geological history may be intimately tied to its capture into the Laplace orbital resonance with neighboring Europa and Io. Since Europa and Io have been resurfaced much more extensively and recently, Ganymede may be the only place that preserves evidence for the early history of this important tidal interaction. In summary, understanding Ganymede's structure and history is an important key to understanding the Jupiter system, and large satellite systems around giant planets in general. Further exploration of Ganymede by an orbiting spacecraft was recognized as a priority item in the 2003 NRC decadal survey. The Europa Jupiter System Mission currently being jointly planned by ESA and NASA includes a European spacecraft that would orbit Ganymede after exploration of the Jupiter system, going a long way toward answering our questions about Ganymede.
Bierhaus Edward B.
Bland Michael T.
Bray Veronica J.
Collins Geoffrey C.
Cooper John F.
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