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SECRETS OF SATURN.

Authors :
Sparrow, Giles
Source :
All About Space; Feb2024, Issue 152, p20-29, 10p, 18 Color Photographs
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Saturn, the sixth planet from the Sun, is a gas giant with a system of impressive rings. Its atmosphere is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, with clouds of ammonia and water ice at different depths. The planet's weather is driven by internal heat, resulting in belts and zones of alternating cloud formations. Saturn's polar regions have unique weather systems and aurorae, and it frequently experiences storms and eruptions of clouds. The planet has a dense core and a powerful magnetic field that extends into space. Its rings are made up of countless particles of water ice and are constantly changing due to the gravitational influence of Saturn's moons. Saturn also has a large family of satellites, including the largest moon, Titan, which has a hazy atmosphere. The age and origins of Saturn's rings are still debated, and the New Worlds mission aims to observe smaller planets that may support life by using a starshade to block out the light from parent stars. [Extracted from the article]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
20500548
Issue :
152
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
All About Space
Publication Type :
Periodical
Accession number :
174907487