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System III variations in apparent distance of Io plasma torus from JupiterSystem III variations in apparent distance of the Io plasma torus from Jupiter are examined on the basis of data obtained from UVS scans across Jupiter's satellite system. The displacement of the dawn and dusk ansae are found to be unexpectedly complex. The displacements are unequal and both ansae are in motion with the motion of the approaching ansa being the lesser of the two. The radial motions, as measured from either the center of Jupiter or the offset-tilted dipole, are of unequal magnitude and have the System III periodicity. It is concluded that the cross-tail electric field that causes these torus motions is concentrated on the dusk ansa, varied with the System III period, and shows magnetic-anomaly phase control. It is found that the dawn-dust asymmetry in brightness is not explained simply by the cross-tail electric field. It is concluded that there is a heating mechanism that causes the dusk side of the Io plasma torus to be brighter than the dawn side.
Document ID
19930030970
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Dessler, A. J.
(Rice Univ. Houston, TX, United States)
Sandel, B. R.
(Arizona Univ. Tucson, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
October 23, 1992
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 19
Issue: 20
ISSN: 0094-8276
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
93A14967
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-610
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-2683
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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