image: A simulation of winds on Jupiter, viewed straight on (Left) and in cross-section (Right). Yellows and reds represent eastward-directed winds; blues represent westward-directed winds relative to the rotating frame of reference. view more
Credit: <i>PNAS</i>
A study suggests that certain global patterns, if observed in Jupiter's near-surface magnetic and gravity fields, could help answer longstanding questions about the planet's interior. Planetary scientists have long debated how deep the long-observed east-west jet streams, banded in latitude on Jupiter's surface, extend below its surface. NASA's Juno spacecraft currently orbits Jupiter, collecting observations, including magnetic field and gravity data. Gary Glatzmaier conducted 3D time-dependent computer simulations of thermal convection and magnetic field generation in Jupiter's deep interior. The results suggest that two pairs of surface jet streams, if observed oscillating eastward and westward in sync on an approximately 10-hour period, would provide evidence of the existence and size of a rocky core at the center of Jupiter. Data from two of Juno's orbits have already provided evidence for local variations in the latitude of Jupiter's magnetic and gravity fields; if the analysis of additional orbits reveals continuous bands in the longitude of these fields, the simulations suggest, the surface jet streams likely extend well into Jupiter's deep liquid interior. According to the author, the simulations may provide a way to interpret the data collected by Juno and global patterns observed on Jupiter.
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Article #17-09125: "Computer simulations of Jupiter's deep internal dynamics help interpret what Juno sees," by Gary A. Glatzmaier.
MEDIA CONTACT: Gary A. Glatzmaier, University of California, Santa Cruz, CA; tel: 541-214-5882; e-mail: glatz@es.ucsc.edu
Journal
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences