Particles and fields in Saturn's magnetosphere: Cassini results after 2 years in orbit
Abstract
The Cassini spacecraft arrived at Saturn in July 2004 Since then the particles and fields instrument onboard have continuously monitoring the Kronian magnetosphere for more than 30 orbits In this study we use energetic particle and magnetic field data obtained during the first two years in orbit to investigate the global structure of the Saturnian magnetosphere and its dynamics On a global scale the Cassini data reveal a variety of spatial structures and temporal variations in Saturn s magnetosphere We will show local time latitude and longitude variations of energetic particles fluxes and changes in the energy spectrum as well as correlations with other instruments Highest intensities of energetic particles have been found between 6 and 15 RS with a local time asymmetry between dawn and dusk Parameters from the plasma magnetic field and plasma wave investigations show a very pronounced modulation at the planetary rotation period The investigation of these modulations is key to understanding the dynamics of the Saturnian magnetosphere
- Publication:
-
36th COSPAR Scientific Assembly
- Pub Date:
- 2006
- Bibcode:
- 2006cosp...36.2071K