Saturn's magnetosphere, rings, and inner satellites
Abstract
The 31 August - 5 September 1979 observations together with those of the other Pioneer 11 investigators provide the first thoroughly credible discovery of the magnetosphere of Saturn and many detailed characteristics thereof. In physical dimensions and energetic charged particle population, Saturn's magnetosphere is intermediate between those of Earth and Jupiter. In terms of planetary radii, the scale of Saturn's magnetosphere more nearly resembles that of Earth and there is much less inflation by entrapped plasma than in the case of Jupiter. The orbit of Titan lies in the outer fringes of the magnetosphere. Particle angular distributions on the inbound leg of the trajectory (sunward side) have a complex pattern but are everywhere consistent with a dipolar magnetic field approximately perpendicular to the planet's equator. On the outbound leg (dawn side) there are marked departures from this situation outside of 8 rS, suggesting an equatorial current sheet having both longitudinal and radial components. The particulate rings and inner satellites have a profound effect on the distribution of energetic particles.
- Publication:
-
Iowa University Progress Report
- Pub Date:
- November 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979iowa.reptR....V
- Keywords:
-
- Natural Satellites;
- Planetary Magnetospheres;
- Saturn (Planet);
- Saturn Rings;
- Angular Distribution;
- Energetic Particles;
- Pioneer 11 Space Probe;
- Planetary Atmospheres;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration