Multi-wavelength telescopic observations of the Galilean moons from Earth and its orbit

The Galilean moons present a diverse and dynamic set of bodies, from the surface volcanism of Io and the subsurface oceans of the icy moons to the rapidly-varying interactions between these objects’ atmospheres and the jovian magnetosphere. Understanding this system as a whole, and the complex interplay between different components, requires a multi-faceted approach. Spacecraft currently at Jupiter or arriving in the coming decade will provide a wealth of new and detailed information. Earth-based observatories (both on the ground and in orbit) provide complementary approaches, including long-term temporal coverage and access to a broad swath of instruments spanning the UV through radio wavelengths. For example, JWST’s high sensitivity in the near-infrared has enabled detection and mapping of new molecules on the Galilean moon surfaces, which can be compared to ALMA maps of thermal emission to draw connections between thermophysical properties and composition. UV/optical (HST/Keck) and millimeter (ALMA) observatories measures atomic and molecular species (respectively) in the atmospheres of these moons, giving insight into ongoing chemistry and the role of endo- and exogeneous processes in sourcing their atmospheres. This talk will highlight some key recent results on the Galilean moon surfaces, atmospheres, and magnetosphere interactions, and will discuss how telescope data can complement and enhance science return from upcoming missions.