Independent Jupiter X-rays

Independent Jupiter X-rays

Studies show that the intense north and south poles of Jupiter function independently of each other. Every 11 minutes, high-energy X-ray radiation is released on the territory of the south pole. But in the north it is devoid of stability.

This picture is different from the earth, where the northern and southern auroras reflect each other. Previously it was believed that the X-ray points of Jupiter would pulsate coordinated through the magnetic field of the planet.

In 2016, the mission of Juno arrived at Jupiter, so most of the data was collected by this device. But there is no X-ray device on it. To understand the X-rays, the team is going to combine the information Chandra and XMM-Newton.

If it is possible to connect the X-ray signatures with physical processes, then you can use the information as a model for understanding other bodies in the Universe, such as brown dwarfs, neutron stars and exoplanets. Juno should help prove or disprove the fact that auroras on Jupiter are created separately when the magnetic field is in contact with the stellar wind. There is a suspicion that the magnetic field lines vibrate, creating waves transporting charged particles to the poles. The speed and direction change until they collide with the planetary atmosphere, creating impulses.

Reviews in 2007 and 2016 helped create an x-ray map and identify spots at each pole. Each hot spot pointed to an area larger than the size of the earth, and they differed in characteristics.

Researchers know that solar wind ions and oxygen and sulfur ions are involved in creating auroras. But it is not yet clear what is the main factor. The team hopes to continue to monitor the activity of the Jupiter's poles by connecting advanced x-ray devices.

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