Satellites of the Outer Solar System: Exchange Processes Involving the Interiors (1st ed. 2010) (Space Sciences Series of ISSI #35)

Synopsis

Recent space missions to the outer solar system, Galileo (1996–2003) and Cassini-Huygens (2004–today), together with ground observations, have revealed that the moons of the outer solar system are enigmatic objects, introducing extraordinary challenges for geologists, astrobiologists, organic chemists, and planetologists. Chemical exchange exists through the different layers that form their interiors, and also from the interior to the surface. The most convincing evidence is certainly the discovery of water vapour and ice particles emerging from Enceladus’s active south polar region. Evidence for exchange with a subsurface liquid ocean has also been provided by the inference of hydrated salts on the surfaces of Jupiter’s moons, Europa and Ganymede, as well as the detection of sodium salts in particles originating in Enceladus’s plumes. Aqueous exchange with the rocky core may also be possible, considering that 40Ar has been observed in the plumes of Enceladus during one flyby of Cassini and in the atmosphere of Titan. The ongoing CH4 replenishment in Titan’s atmosphere is additional striking evidence of exchange processes within the moons.

Copyright:

2010

Book Details

Book Quality:

Publisher Quality

ISBN-13:

9781441974396

Related ISBNs:

9781461427803

Publisher:

Springer New York

Date of Addition:

03/14/24

Copyrighted By:

N/A

Adult content:

No

Language:

English

Has Image Descriptions:

No

Categories:

Nonfiction, Science

Submitted By:

Bookshare Staff

Usage Restrictions:

This is a copyrighted book.

Edited by:

O. Grasset

Edited by:

M. Blanc

Edited by:

A. Coustenis

Edited by:

William Durham

Edited by:

H. Hussmann

Edited by:

R. Pappalardo

Edited by:

D. Turrini