The Saturn spectrum in the EUV - Electron excited hydrogen

Recent laboratory observations of electron excited H2 in the EUV have brought about the realization that higher Rydberg series band systems make a significant contribution to the emission spectrum. Theoretical cross section estimates for the excitation of the D, D-prime, B-prime, and B-double-prime states agree with these results. Model calculations for particle excitation of the Saturn atmosphere, including the higher states, now show excellent agreement with Voyager auroral and dayside equatorial spectra. The model data also confirm the relative spectral response calibration of the Voyager instruments, providing a basis for accurate analysis of the excitation processes on both Jupiter and Saturn.