Length of Saturn's Day Updated Based on Mystery Signal
One possible explanation for the different orbital period is that the electrically charged ionosphere is "slipping" relative to the planet's rotation.
Image source: NewScientistSpace.com / NASA / JPL / SSI
Image source: NewScientistSpace.com / NASA / JPL / SSI
Ker Than writes on Space.com:
How long is a day on Saturn? According to a new study, it's 10 hours, 47 minutes and 6 seconds—give or take 40 seconds.More here.
This value differs from previous estimates by up to 8 minutes and is based on measurements of a mysterious magnetic field signal emanating from the planet. If confirmed, the finding could help scientists gain a better understanding of Saturn's turbulent atmosphere and its shrouded interior.
The study, led by Giacomo Giampieri of NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, is detailed in the May 4 issue of the journal Nature.
posted by Fergie @ 5/03/2006 10:59:00 AM
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