Ion Neutral Mass Spectrometer Results from the First Flyby of Titan
Publication date: 14 May 2005
Authors: Hunter Waite Jr., J., et al.
Journal: Science
Volume: 308
Issue: 5724
Page: 982-986
Year: 2005
Copyright: Science Magazine
The Cassini Ion Neutral Mass Spectrometer (INMS) has obtained the first in situ composition measurements of the neutral densities of molecular nitrogen, methane, molecular hydrogen, argon, and a host of stable carbon-nitrile compounds in Titan's upper atmosphere. INMS in situ mass spectrometry has also provided evidence for atmospheric waves in the upper atmosphere and the first direct measurements of isotopes of nitrogen, carbon, and argon, which reveal interesting clues about the evolution of the atmosphere. The bulk composition and thermal structure of the moon's upper atmosphere do not appear to have changed considerably since the Voyager 1 flyby.
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