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An unexpected cooling effect in Saturn’s upper atmosphere

Author

Listed:
  • C. G. A. Smith

    (University College)

  • A. D. Aylward

    (University College)

  • G. H. Millward

    (University College
    University of Colorado)

  • S. Miller

    (University College)

  • L. E. Moore

    (Boston University)

Abstract

Saturn's hidden power The four Solar System giants are too hot. That is, their upper-atmosphere temperatures are higher than predicted by their absorption of sunlight. The favoured explanation is that the 'missing' heat is injected by the magnetosphere in the planets' polar regions, and redistributed globally by winds. A new study rules this out. Smith et al. report that the net effect of the winds driven by polar energy inputs on Saturn is not to heat but to cool the atmosphere. This surprising result will stimulate a search for an unknown source of polar energy, or for some other process that heats low latitudes directly.

Suggested Citation

  • C. G. A. Smith & A. D. Aylward & G. H. Millward & S. Miller & L. E. Moore, 2007. "An unexpected cooling effect in Saturn’s upper atmosphere," Nature, Nature, vol. 445(7126), pages 399-401, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:445:y:2007:i:7126:d:10.1038_nature05518
    DOI: 10.1038/nature05518
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