Small Particles in Saturnas Rings

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Small Particles in Saturnas Rings

May 3, 2005 - Small Particles in Saturnas Rings. Specially designed Cassini orbits place Earth and Cassini on opposite sides of Saturns rings, a geometry known as occultation. Cassini conducted the first radio occultation observation of Saturns rings on May 3, 2005.
Three simultaneous radio signals of 0.94, 3.6, and 13 centimeter wavelengths (Ka-, X-, and S-bands) were sent from Cassini through the rings to Earth. The observed change of each signal as Cassini moved behind the rings provided a profile of the distribution of ring material as a function of distance from Saturn, or an optical depth profile.
This simulated image was constructed from the measured optical depth profiles. It depicts the observed ring structure at about 10 kilometers (6 miles) in resolution. Color is used to represent information about ring particle sizes in different regions based on the measured effects of the three radio signals.
Shades of purple, primarily over most of the inner ring (ring B) and the inner portion of the next ring (ring A), indicate regions where there is a lack of particles less than 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) in diameter. Green and blue shades indicate regions where there are particles of sizes smaller than 5 centimeters (2 inches) and 1 centimeter (less than one third of an inch), respectively, primarily in outer ring A and within most of ring C. From other evidence in the radio observations, all ring regions appear to be populated by a broad range of particle size distribution that extends to boulder sizes (several to many meters or yards across)

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Media ID 13010983

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Circle Concentric Disc Disk Formation Gas Giants Giant Planets Halo Mosaic Particle Pattern Planet Planetary Rings Purple Radial Ring Ring Systems Rings Of Saturn Saturn Solar System Systems View From Space

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of Saturn's rings, specifically highlighting the presence of small particles within them. Taken on May 3,2005, during a unique alignment known as occultation, this image was constructed using data collected by NASA's Cassini spacecraft. To capture this stunning view, Cassini transmitted three radio signals of varying wavelengths through Saturn's rings to Earth. By analyzing the changes in these signals as Cassini moved behind the rings, scientists were able to create an optical depth profile that revealed the distribution of ring material at different distances from Saturn. The simulated image depicts the observed ring structure with remarkable detail and resolution of approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles). The color scheme employed in this representation provides valuable information about particle sizes across various regions. Shades of purple dominate most of inner ring B and parts of inner ring A, indicating a scarcity of particles smaller than 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) in diameter. In contrast, green and blue shades signify areas where particles measuring less than 5 centimeters (2 inches) and 1 centimeter respectively are prevalent. These regions are primarily found in outer ring A and throughout most sections of ring C. Overall, this mesmerizing photograph offers a glimpse into the complex composition and dynamic nature of Saturn's magnificent rings—a testament to both their scientific significance and aesthetic allure.

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