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Neptune radio emission - Predictions based on planetary scaling lawsIn this paper a prediction is advanced concerning Neptune's low-frequency radio emission based on the radiometric Bode's law for radio planets in combination with the magnetostrophic scaling law for magnetized planets. The total emitted radio power is predicted to be about 1.6 x 10 to the 7th W, very nearly the same as that predicted and observed for Uranus. Possible emission spectral shapes, based on Saturn and earth-like models, are shown. Using these models, the radio emission frequency range is predicted to extend from approximately 100 to just over 1000 kHz, with a spectral peak between 350 and 500 kHz. If radiation is beamed approximately in the sunward direction, Neptune should be detectable by the planetary radio astronomy experiment onboard the Voyager spacecraft sometime between 45 and 90 days before closest approach. This detection is likely to represent the first direct evidence of a Neptune magnetic field. Possible implications for Neptune's magnetosphere with regard to the time of first detection are discussed.
Document ID
19880039822
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Desch, Michael D.
(NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Date Acquired
August 13, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1988
Publication Information
Publication: Geophysical Research Letters
Volume: 15
ISSN: 0094-8276
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
88A27049
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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