Jupiter System Observatory at Sun-Jupiter Lagrangian Point One

Abstract

We present a New Frontiers class mission concept of a Jupiter system observatory, located at the Sun-Jupiter Lagrangian point L1 focused on time-domain sciences, including the weather systems and deep interior structure of Jupiter, ionosphere-magnetosphere-solar wind coupling, activities of Galilean moons, and impact flashes on Jupiter. This concept also brings unique advantages to study jovian irregular satellites, upstream solar wind, interplanetary/interstellar dust populations, and other minor bodies that are critical to understand the current and past interactions between the jovian system and the solar system that cannot be achieved otherwise. The conceptual observatory will provide high synergistic values to current and future missions with broad scientific implications regarding solar system evolution, exoplanets, and astrophysics studies, and could serve as a strategic facility for the planetary science and exploration in the coming decade.