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Jupiter's X-Ray and UV Dark Polar Region
W R Dunn1,2, D M Weigt3,4, D Grodent5
1Mullard Space Science Laboratory University College London Dorking UK.
Geophysical Research Letters
|July 22, 2022
Summary
Jupiter's dark polar region (DPR) shows minimal X-ray and ultraviolet (UV) auroral emissions. Analysis of Chandra X-ray Observatory and Hubble Space Telescope data confirms the DPR produces no statistically significant X-ray signature.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Space Physics
- Astrophysics
Background:
- Jupiter exhibits dynamic X-ray and ultraviolet (UV) auroral emissions.
- A specific region, the dark polar region (DPR), is known for low UV emission.
- Simultaneous observations are crucial for understanding auroral processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the X-ray emission characteristics of Jupiter's dark polar region (DPR).
- To determine if the DPR produces a statistically significant X-ray signature.
- To correlate X-ray and UV auroral emissions in Jupiter's polar regions.
Main Methods:
- Conducted 14 simultaneous Chandra X-ray Observatory (CXO) and Hubble Space Telescope (HST) observations of Jupiter's aurorae.
- Analyzed X-ray and UV data from 2016 to 2019.
- Assessed X-ray emission levels from the DPR against background noise and scattered light.
Main Results:
- The dark polar region (DPR) showed consistently low X-ray photon production across all observations.
- The observed low X-ray levels were statistically consistent with scattered solar emission or instrumental effects.
- No statistically significant detectable X-ray signature was found originating from the DPR.
Conclusions:
- Jupiter's dark polar region (DPR) is a region of minimal auroral activity in both X-ray and UV wavelengths.
- The DPR does not contribute significantly to Jupiter's overall X-ray auroral emissions.
- Further studies may explore the physical mechanisms responsible for the lack of emission in the DPR.
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