O2 And O2+ Density From The Rings Through Inner Magnetosphere

Details O2 And O2+ Density From The Rings Through Inner Magnetosphere O2 And O2+ Density From The Rings Through Inner Magnetosphere

Sep 2009

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2009dps....41.1801e&link_type=abstract

American Astronomical Society, DPS meeting #41, #18.01

Astronomy and Astrophysics

Astronomy

Scientific paper

The main rings and the ice grains in the tenuous F and G rings are a source of O2+ ions for the inner magnetosphere. These ions are formed from neutral O2 through the decomposition of ice by incident radiation. As the principle source of O2+ is ionization of O2, O2+ is a marker for the radiation induced decomposition of ice and the subsequent production of O2. Recently, Martens et al (2008) described O2+ beyond the orbit of Enceladus, noting the possibility of Rhea as a source of O2. Here we focus on O2+ inside the orbit of Enceladus (< 4 Rs; Rs = Saturn Radius at 60300 km). Using the Cassini Plasma Spectrometer (CAPS) data we determine the density of the O2+ ions from the main rings out to Enceladus. This study uses the data from the Saturn Orbit Insertion (SOI) pass, in which Cassini passed directly over the rings, and several subsequent orbits that have passed within 4 Rs. Although, there have been 6 passes of Cassini close to Enceladus, there is little evidence that Enceladus is a source of neutral O2. Therefore, the ring system and the small icy bodies within 4 Rs are the likely sources for the observed O2+ in the inner magnetosphere. Since the main rings are the principle source, and the angle of the sun is now nearly edge on, there could be less neutral O2 produced from the rings and thus less O2+. By looking at the different passes of Cassini from the time of SOI through the equinox portion of the mission, it may be possible to examine, not only the O2+ density in the inner magnetosphere, but also possibly seasonal effects of the sun on the O2+ ion density.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

O2 And O2+ Density From The Rings Through Inner Magnetosphere 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 O2 And O2+ Density From The Rings Through Inner Magnetosphere, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and O2 And O2+ Density From The Rings Through Inner Magnetosphere will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1332355