Structure of the Titan plasma environment during 5 consecutive and similar flybys

EDBERG, NIKLAS J. T.; ÅGREN, KARIN; WAHLUND, JAN-ERIK; MOROOKA, MICHIKO; COWLEY, STANLEY W. H.; MODOLO, RONAN; COATES, ANDREW; BERTUCCI, CESAR; DOUGHERTY, MICHELE K.

Congreso; 38th COSPAR Scientific Assembly; 2010

We present initial results from the Cassini/RPWS/LP measurements during the Titan flybys T55-T59. These flybys are particularly chosen since the flyby geometry is almost identical from pass to pass except for a constant decrease in latitude of closest approach. All flybys occur at around 2200 Saturn local time. Hence we can, firstly, study if there is any latitude dependence on the structure of the plasma environment around Titan. Secondly, differences in the general structure from pass to pass will be compared to upstream factors, such as dynamic pressure, plasma beta, magnetic field direction and Saturn kilometric radiation phase. Strong variations from one pass to the other will be investigated in relation to the above-mentioned factors such that the main controlling factors of the plasma environment of Titan can be discerned. We will also present measurements of Titan-escaping ions during these passes in order to learn how that varies in response to changing upstream factors.