Scientists collected 41 observations of the solar eclipse of Saturn’s ring from the Cassini mission.
Scientists collected 41 observations of the solar eclipse of Saturn’s ring from the Cassini mission. The assembly will inform future investigations into the particle size distribution and the formation of Saturn’s rings, which are key elements in understanding their formation and evolution.
“For nearly two decades, NASA’s Cassini spacecraft has shared the wonders of Saturn, its family of icy moons and distinctive rings, but we still don’t know the exact origins of the ring system,” said Dr. Stephanie Garmack, a researcher. at the American Space Institute. SwRI Department of Space Sciences. “Evidence suggests that the rings are relatively small and may have formed from the destruction of an ice satellite or a comet. However, to support the single origin theory, we need to have a good idea of the ring’s particle size. ”
Cassini’s Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrometer (UVIS) is particularly sensitive to some of the smaller ring particles, particularly with observations made at extreme ultraviolet wavelengths.
To determine the particle size of the ring, observe the UVIS when the device is aimed Sun, looking through the rings of what is known as the solar occultation. The ring particles partially block the path of light, providing a direct measurement of optical depth, which is a key parameter for determining the size and composition of the ring particles.
“Looking at the wavelengths of light from the sun, this observation gives we Garmak provides information on the smallest particle sizes with Saturn’s rings. “UVI can detect dust particles down to the micron level, which helps us understand the origin and activity of collisions and annihilation of ring particles within the system.”
The assembly also explores differences in optical depth from occult observations, which can help determine particle size and composition. During an occultation, light emitted from a background source, such as the Sun, is absorbed and scattered by particles in the light path. The amount of light blocked by the ring particles provides a direct measurement of the optical depth of the ring.
Including visual depth is essential for understanding the structure of the ring. The study measured the optical depth as a function of the geometry of the view, which refers to the angle of view of the ring system with respect to the Cassini spacecraft. As the light passing through the ring changes at different angles, scientists can form an image of the ring’s structure.
“The ring system around the giant planet also provides a test pool to verify the basic physical properties and processes of our planet Solar system In general, Garmak said. “These particles are thought to be the result of the collision of objects forming a disk and forming larger particles. Understanding how these ring systems are formed can help us understand how planets are also formed. ”
