Influence of Saturnian moons on Saturn kilometric radiation

Abstract

Similar to past studies at Jupiter, we conduct an investigation of possible associations of radio emission occurrence probability with the orbital phases of Saturnian moons. We use a new definition of the Saturn longitude system (SLS) based on the results of Kurth et al. (2007). This paper presents results of our findings to date, sampling a large portion of the Radio and Plasma Wave Science (RPWS) instrument data over the frequency range 12 kHz < f < 16 MHz. We also investigate the intensity of Saturn kilometric radiation (SKR) as a function of the local time and subsolar longitude. When Titan is near a local time of midnight, there is a significant increase in the occurrence probability of SKR and a diminution of SKR when Titan is near local noon and afternoon. This indicates Titan may play a role in the process of substorm generation at Saturn perhaps due to its large plasma wake. Rhea displays a marginal orbital phase "control" of a subset of the SKR. In the past there have been conflicting reports of the absence of SKR emission at particular local times of Dione. We find no long-term, statistical influence of Dione on SKR occurrence probability. In addition, we find no significant statistical influence of Enceladus or Tethys on SKR occurrence probability. Copyright 2007 by the American Geophysical Union.