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3‐D global MHD model prediction for the first close flyby of Titan by Cassini
Author(s) -
Ma YingJuan,
Nagy Andrew F.,
Cravens Thomas E.,
Sokolov Igor V.,
Clark John,
Hansen Kenneth C.
Publication year - 2004
Publication title -
geophysical research letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.007
H-Index - 273
eISSN - 1944-8007
pISSN - 0094-8276
DOI - 10.1029/2004gl021215
Subject(s) - titan (rocket family) , ionosphere , astrobiology , magnetohydrodynamics , physics , spacecraft , geophysics , atmosphere of titan , plasma , geology , atmospheric sciences , astronomy , quantum mechanics
The global features of the interaction between Saturn's magnetospheric plasma flow and Titan's atmosphere/ionosphere are simulated by using a 3‐D, multi‐species, high spatial resolution, global MHD model. Our model uses a spherical grid structure leading to very good (∼36 km) altitude resolution in the ionospheric region of Titan. The model also provides good resolution and meaningful results in the upstream and wake regions. Titan's atmosphere and ionosphere are approximated by 10 neutral and 7 ion species. Calculations, which make predictions for the anticipated results to be obtained by the Cassini spacecraft during its first close flyby (TA) of Titan, are presented.