Radio imaging reveals details in Saturn's rings

July 7, 2005
The Cassini spacecraft, a joint venture between NASA and the European and Italian Space Agencies, positioned itself on the far side of Saturn's rings and beamed radio signals at 0.94 (Ka-band), 3.6 (X-band), and 13-cm (S-band) toward Earth.

The signals were received and deciphered to reveal a distribution profile of ring material. Red, for example, represents regions with particles larger than 2 in. in diameter. Green and blue shades indicate regions where particles are smaller than 2 in. and 0.33 in, respectively. NASA scientists note that the Keeler Gap, the faint black ring near the outer edge, is filled with shades of blue. They theorize that frequent collisions between larger particles in this active region fragment them into more numerous smaller ones.

Sponsored Recommendations

MOVI-C Unleashed: Your One-Stop Shop for Automation Tasks

April 17, 2024
Discover the versatility of SEW-EURODRIVE's MOVI-C modular automation system, designed to streamline motion control challenges across diverse applications.

The Power of Automation Made Easy

April 17, 2024
Automation Made Easy is more than a slogan; it signifies a shift towards smarter, more efficient operations where technology takes on the heavy lifting.

Lubricants: Unlocking Peak Performance in your Gearmotor

April 17, 2024
Understanding the role of lubricants, how to select them, and the importance of maintenance can significantly impact your gearmotor's performance and lifespan.

From concept to consumption: Optimizing success in food and beverage

April 9, 2024
Identifying opportunities and solutions for plant floor optimization has never been easier. Download our visual guide to quickly and efficiently pinpoint areas for operational...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!