What To Know
- Since Voyager 2 passed near Uranus in 1986, we know that the magnetic field of the “ice giant” is asymmetrical and inclined at 60°but also that the rings are about 100 times less dense than expected.
- A unique magnetic field It is thus possible that the weak radiation from the rings is linked to the planet’s tilted and unbalanced magnetic field.
- ” Particles accelerate and then decelerate depending on the regions According to the scientist, this study highlights how Uranus’ magnetic asymmetry distorts the structure of the planet’s proton radiation rings.
In the solar system, each planet has its mysteries, and thanks to the various space probes, we learn a little more about each one every day. Like for example Uranus which has the double particularity of rotating leaning waybut also to have low density rings. Since Voyager 2 passed near Uranus in 1986, we know that the magnetic field of the “ice giant” is asymmetrical and inclined at 60°but also that the rings are about 100 times less dense than expected. In fact, thanks to simulations carried out using data from Voyager 2, scientists suggest that these two anomalies are linked.
A unique magnetic field
It is thus possible that the weak radiation from the rings is linked to the planet’s tilted and unbalanced magnetic field. This would cause “traffic jams” of particles swirling around the planet. “Its magnetic field is unique in the solar system. Most planets that have a strong intrinsic magnetic field, such as Earth, Jupiter and Saturn, have a very ‘traditional’ magnetic field shape, known as a dipole,” recalls the study’s lead author Matthew Acevski. “It’s the same shape of magnetic field that you would expect from an ordinary magnet. That’s not the case with Uranus; Uranus’ field is very asymmetrical, and it becomes more so as you get closer to the planet’s surface.”
Particles accelerate and then decelerate depending on the regions
According to the scientist, this study highlights how Uranus’ magnetic asymmetry distorts the structure of the planet’s proton radiation rings. “My hypothesis was that the magnetic asymmetry distorted the proton radiation belts, forming regions around the planet where the radiation rings were more compressed and therefore with higher intensity. And other regions where they were more spread out, leading to lower intensity.” Hence the term traffic jam to illustrate this phenomenon, with particles accelerating and then decelerating as they pass through regions where the magnetic fields are different. The changes in the speed of the particles thus cause them to group together in some regions and disperse in others. Like vehicles on the roads.
A new mission by 2030
Since the simulations are based on observations from 1986, they would need to be verified with a new probe. Good news, NASA is planning to launch a mission to Uranus as early as 2030. “To verify these simulations, we need a flagship mission to Uranus to obtain new in situ measurements of the planet over several years rather than just hours as Voyager 2 did.”concludes Acevski.
