Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

Eugene

(61,595 posts)
Tue Oct 27, 2015, 05:36 PM Oct 2015

Cassini Zeros in on Daring Dive into Enceladus' Plumes

Source: Discovery News

Cassini Zeros in on Daring Dive into Enceladus' Plumes

OCT 27, 2015 03:00 PM ET // BY IRENE KLOTZ

NASA's Saturn-orbiting Cassini spacecraft is on track for a deep but quick plunge through plumes of water vapor shooting out hundreds of miles into space from the planet’s small, ocean-bearing moon Enceladus.

Cassini, which has been surveying the Saturn system for 11 years, will fly as close as 30 miles above the moon’s southern polar region, about 20 miles closer than any previous pass through the plumes.

Scientists believe the plumes stem from a global liquid ocean that is sealed beneath Enceladus’ icy face. They suspect tidal heating is responsible for the ocean, a process which also may mean the interior of Enceladus is suitable for life.

Cassini does not have life-detection instruments, but the flyby, which will take place at around 1 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, is expected to provide key details that will help scientists assess whether Enceladus is a suitable habitat for life.

[font size=1]-snip-[/font]

Read more: http://news.discovery.com/space/alien-life-exoplanets/cassini-zeros-in-on-daring-dive-into-enceladus-plumes-151027.htm

1 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies
Cassini Zeros in on Daring Dive into Enceladus' Plumes (Original Post) Eugene Oct 2015 OP
"Science.... lastlib Oct 2015 #1

lastlib

(22,981 posts)
1. "Science....
Thu Oct 29, 2015, 09:56 PM
Oct 2015

...flies you into plumes of water vapor from Enceladus. Religion flies you into buildings."


I F***ing Love Science!

Latest Discussions»Culture Forums»Science»Cassini Zeros in on Darin...