Artistic interpretation of the immersion of the Cassini apparatus in the atmosphere of Saturn
The Cassini apparatus is preparing to enter the last passage through the atmosphere of Saturn for 5 orbital passes. The first will be held on August 14, where the distance will be close to 1,630 km and 1,710 km.
It must enter a dense atmospheric layer in order to test small rocket engines to maintain stability. Cassini performed similar maneuvers on Titan, so he is ready for the unexpected.
August 14 will show how engines cope at 10% -60% of their capabilities. If they had to use more power, the atmosphere was denser than the models indicate. If the maneuver is not needed during the three passes, the team in turn uses the “pop-up” function to reduce the maximum altitude to 200 km. Cassini will be the first atmospheric probe for Saturn. This is a unique experience that will pave the way for the following probes. In addition, the device must record the sunshine on the planet, the temperature mark and the eddies at the poles. When diving, he will also be able to see small objects with a width of 25 km.
On September 11, he will come up to Titan to slow down the momentum and tilt the path. And on September 15 is expected immersion. At this point, Cassini uses 7 tools. It will be lowered until the engines can resist the atmosphere and the contact is broken.
