Astronomers discover x-rays from Saturn
Posted: Tue, Mar 9, 2004, 11:09 AM ET (1609 GMT)
Astronomers have observed the planet Saturn in x-rays for the first time, leaving astronomers puzzled why the distribution of x-rays is so different from Jupiter. The x-rays, discovered by the Chandra X-Ray Observatory, have a spectrum similar to those generated by the Sun, leading astronomers to conclude that Saturn's atmosphere is reflecting solar x-rays. The intensity and distribution of the x-rays has puzzled astronomers: while the intensity near the equator is similar to what is seen on Jupiter, there is far less activity near Saturn's poles, where the planet's magnetic field should generate x-rays in much the same way Jupiter's powerful magnetic field does. Chandra was unable to detect Saturn's extensive ring system, leading astronomers to conclude that for some reason the material in the rings is less efficient at scattering x-rays.
Astronomers have observed the planet Saturn in x-rays for the first time, leaving astronomers puzzled why the distribution of x-rays is so different from Jupiter. The x-rays, discovered by the Chandra X-Ray Observatory, have a spectrum similar to those generated by the Sun, leading astronomers to conclude that Saturn's atmosphere is reflecting solar x-rays. The intensity and distribution of the x-rays has puzzled astronomers: while the intensity near the equator is similar to what is seen on Jupiter, there is far less activity near Saturn's poles, where the planet's magnetic field should generate x-rays in much the same way Jupiter's powerful magnetic field does. Chandra was unable to detect Saturn's extensive ring system, leading astronomers to conclude that for some reason the material in the rings is less efficient at scattering x-rays.
Related Links:
| <<previous article | next article>> |
|
news in brief
|
|
|
|
news links
|
|
Tuesday, November 4
Space42 Expands SAR Constellation
Aviation Week — 7:04 am ET (1204 GMT) Intuitive Machines to Acquire Lanteris Space Systems, Creating the Next-Generation Commercial, Civil, and National Security Space Prime
Intuitive Machines — 7:02 am ET (1202 GMT) As Florida doubles down on its support of space discovery, FIU takes a lead in exploring critical governance and security issues
Florida International Univ. — 7:01 am ET (1201 GMT) Why Do We Celebrate UCF Space Week? Because Discovery Starts Here
Univ. of Central Florida — 7:01 am ET (1201 GMT) MDA Space investing in $10 million in Maritime Launch Services
Canadian Press — 6:59 am ET (1159 GMT) |
