Abstract
Saturn's rotation rate is still uncertain, and while it is theorized to exhibit differential rotation much like Jupiter, this claim is somewhat disputed. By analyzing the properties of waves in the ring system of Saturn as measured by the Cassini spacecraft, we aim to provide observational evidence of this phenomenon. The results of wave analysis allow us to characterize the perturbers responsible for the production of these waves, which are believed to be mass anomalies in the interior of Saturn itself. By calculating the masses of these anomalies and attempting to pinpoint their locations inside of the planet, we provide strong support for the presence of internal mass anomalies and for what is known about Saturn's differential rotation.
Recommended Citation
Hiveley, Aurora
(2023)
"Mapping the Tesseral Field of Saturn,"
Macalester Journal of Physics and Astronomy: Vol. 11:
Iss.
1, Article 7.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.macalester.edu/mjpa/vol11/iss1/7