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PS3.1

Outer planet satellites with an atmosphere
Convener: A. Coustenis  | Co-Conveners: S. K. Atreya , G. Orton , J.-P. Lebreton 
Oral Programme
 / Tue, 24 Apr, 15:30–17:00  / Room 28
 / Wed, 25 Apr, 08:30–12:15  / Room 28
Poster Programme
 / Attendance Thu, 26 Apr, 17:30–19:00  / Hall XL
Poster Summaries & DiscussionsPSD17.3 

Several satellites in the Outer Solar System are geologically active, show time variable properties, and have a tenuous or thick gaseous environment or plumes. Titan with its thick nitrogen atmosphere is found to have seasonal changes as monitored by the Cassini spacecraft since 2004. Enceladus radiates more heat than can be fully explained (as does Io) and expels a plume of water vapor and other constituents from its southern pole. Europa’s surface shows signs of relatively recent geological activity and carries a tenuous oxygen atmosphere. Similarly, Ganymede (and possibly Callisto), has a small oxygen atmosphere, but also its own magnetosphere, and the internal activity that is necessary to generate its magnetic field. Neptune's moon Triton has a nitrogen-methane atmosphere, much like Titan, but with a pressure that is more Pluto-like. This session welcomes papers about satellites with atmospheres, with special emphasis on observations (both from space and from the ground), modelling, and theoretical interpretation. Abstracts on satellite interactions with their neutral environments, supporting laboratory investigations and concepts for future spacecraft missions and investigations are also relevant to this session.