Planned Cassini measurements of Saturn's inner magnetosphere

Physics

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

Scientific paper

The nature of the magnetic field around Saturn will be revealed by the Cassini spacecraft during Saturn Orbit Insertion (SOI) in July 2004 when the spacecraft will pass closer to the planet than ever before (0.3 R_s above the surface), as well as during numerous close approaches to the planet during the 4-year orbital tour. We consider the two main contributions to the magnetic field in the inner magnetosphere: the internal planetary source, and the ring current. First, we assess the importance of the SOI pass for measuring the internal magnetic field multipoles, using standard inversion techniques. We claim that by combining the SOI data with a number of selected passes within 4 R_s all multipoles up to order l=5 can be measured. We also consider the field produced by an axisymmetric ring current, whose existence was revealed in the early 80's, following Pioneer 11 and Voyager 1 and 2 flybys. We derive an analytic expression for the magnetic field produced by the ring current, and we fit the model to the available data. We discuss differences between the model's parameters for the three flybys, and suggest possible improvements in the model in light of future Cassini data.

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

Planned Cassini measurements of Saturn's 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 Planned Cassini measurements of Saturn's inner magnetosphere, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Planned Cassini measurements of Saturn's inner magnetosphere will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-844898

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.