Jovian Sodium Nebula and Io Plasma Torus S+ and Brightnesses 2017–2023: Insights Into Volcanic Versus Sublimation Supply

Abstract

We present first results derived from the largest collection of contemporaneously recorded Jovian sodium nebula and Io plasma torus in [S II] 6731 Å images assembled to date. The data were recorded by the Planetary Science Institute's Io Input/Output observatory and provide important context to Io geologic and atmospheric studies as well as the Juno mission and supporting observations. Enhancements in the observed emission are common, typically lasting 1–3 months, such that the average flux of material from Io is determined by the enhancements, not any quiescent state. The enhancements are not seen at periodicities associated with modulation in solar insolation of Io's surface, thus physical process(es) other than insolation-driven sublimation must ultimately drive the bulk of Io's atmospheric escape. We suggest that geologic activity, likely involving volcanic plumes, drives escape.