NASA’s Cassini spacecraft at Saturn is studying its magnetosphere, or the “magnetic bubble” around the planet. Scientists are interested in any interaction between the magnetosphere and Saturn’s moon Titan. Cassini is on its 75th flyby of Titan.

The influence of the sun’s illumination and the hot ionized gas surrounding Saturn creates changes in the magnetic bubble. Measurements are being taken at many locations around Saturn and Titan to monitor the changes. As Titan orbits the planet, the magnetic bubble changes and is currently unpredictable. This data will help scientists understand the relationship between Titan and Saturn’s magnetospheres.

During Cassini’s closest approach to Titan at a distance of 2,270 miles, Cassini’s plasma spectrometer instrument will be used to determine the components in the ionized gas. Cassini’s radio science subsystem will gather very sensitive data on Titan’s gravity to help understand its interior. Scientists are trying to determine whether Titan has an ocean under its crust.

Titan will be studied by other instruments to study its seasonal change. Northern Titan is heading to its summer season so the northern polar vortex weather pattern can be compared to the pattern from winter. Temperatures in the stratosphere will be mapped. Lakes, clouds, and the movement of aerosols in the atmosphere will be monitored.