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Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 11, 2026

11:34
Scattering And Absorption of Light in Planetary Regoliths
Published on: July 1, 2019
Callisto: disk temperature at 3.71-centimeter wavelength.
Summary
Radio observations of Jupiter
Area of Science:
- Radio Astronomy
- Planetary Science
- Jovian System Studies
Background:
- Callisto, a moon of Jupiter, was studied for its radio emission.
- Previous temperature measurements at shorter wavelengths (3.5 and 8.2 mm) yielded higher values.
- Accurate temperature determination is crucial for understanding Callisto's surface properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the radio emission disk temperature of Callisto at a wavelength of 3.71 cm.
- To compare the measured temperature with theoretical models of planetary emission.
- To investigate the composition and physical state of Callisto's surface.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a three-element interferometer for radio observations during Jupiter's 1973 opposition.
- Implemented specific procedures to mitigate interference from Jupiter's radio emission.
Main Results:
- The observed disk temperature of Callisto at 3.71 cm was 101+/-25 K.
- This value is significantly lower than previously reported temperatures at millimeter wavelengths.
- The results align better with predictions for a simple dielectric sphere model.
Conclusions:
- The 3.71 cm radio emission suggests a surface temperature for Callisto consistent with a dielectric composition.
- Higher temperatures reported at shorter wavelengths may be influenced by different emission mechanisms or atmospheric effects.
- Further observations at various wavelengths are needed to fully characterize Callisto's thermal emission properties.

