Grooves on small saturnian satellites and other objects: Characteristics and significance

Abstract

High-resolution images from the Cassini Imaging Science Subsystem (ISS) show parallel sets of grooves on Epimetheus and Pandora. Grooves have previously been observed on other satellites and asteroids, including Phobos, Gaspra, Ida, Eros, and minor occurrences on Phoebe. Sets of parallel grooves are so far observed only on satellites known or likely to be subject to significant tidal stresses, such as forced librations. Grooves on asteroids and on satellites not subject to significant forced librations occur in more globally disorganized patterns that may reflect impacts, varying internal structures, or even thermal stresses. The patterns and individual morphologies of grooves on the tidally-affected satellites suggest fracturing in weak materials due to tidal stresses and forced librations.

Document Type

Article

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.icarus.2009.06.003

Keywords

Dynamics, Satellites, Saturn, Shapes, Surfaces

Publication Date

11-1-2009

Journal Title

Icarus

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