The Map of Dione
Explanation:
This cylindrical projection global map is
one
of six new color maps
of Saturn's midsized icy moons,
constructed using 10 years of image data from the
Cassini spacecraft.
Discovered by Cassini (the astronomer) in 1684,
Dione is about 1,120 kilometers across.
Based on data extending
from infrared to ultraviolet,
the full resolution of this latest space-age map is 250 meters per pixel.
The remarkable brightness difference between the
tidally locked
moon's lighter leading hemisphere (right) and
darker trailing hemisphere clearly stands out.
Like other Saturn moons orbiting within the broad E-ring, Dione's
leading hemisphere is kept shiny as it picks up a coating of
the faint ring's icy material.
The E-ring material is
constantly replenished by
geysers on moon
Enceladus' south pole.
Lighter, younger surface fractures
also appear to cross the dark, cratered trailing hemisphere.
Authors & editors:
Robert Nemiroff
(MTU) &
Jerry Bonnell
(USRA)
NASA Web Site Statements, Warnings,
and Disclaimers
NASA Official: Jay Norris.
Specific
rights apply.
A service of:
LHEA at
NASA /
GSFC
& Michigan Tech. U.
