.. And just this morning, news about the heat source behind Enceladus' plumes/geysers:
Cassini finds Enceladus is a powerhouse
Quote:
Heat output from the south polar region of Saturn's moon Enceladus is much greater than was previously thought possible, according to a new analysis of data collected by NASA's Cassini spacecraft. The study was published in the Journal of Geophysical Research on March 4.
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A possible explanation of the high heat flow observed is that Enceladus' orbital relationship to Saturn and Dione changes with time, allowing periods of more intensive tidal heating, separated by more quiescent periods. This means Cassini might be lucky enough to be seeing Enceladus when it's unusually active.
The new, higher heat flow determination makes it even more likely that liquid water exists below Enceladus' surface, Howett noted.
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"The possibility of liquid water, a tidal energy source and the observation of organic (carbon-rich) chemicals in the plume of Enceladus make the satellite a site of strong astrobiological interest".
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Anyone up for a trip to Enceladus ?
Cassini has produced some truly outstanding science data. I remember the protests when it was launched, which could have put the whole mission in serious jeopardy. Thank goodness mass paranoia didn't win that battle !
Cheers