The dynamics of Saturn's magnetosphere utilising Cassini magnetometer observations

The Cassini spacecraft went into orbit around Saturn in July 2004 and the mission has been extended until September 2017 when the spacecraft will, following close polar orbits of Saturn, dive into its atmosphere. We are the Principal Investigator institute for the Cassini magnetometer and utilise the magnetic field observations to better understand the dynamics of the magnetosphere, the variability of its boundaries (both bow shock and magnetopause) as well as the interaction of the magnetospheric plasma with the numerous moons in orbit around Saturn (such as Enceladus, Dione and Titan). This project will involve utilisation of magnetic field data from Cassini, in conjunction with data from other instruments on board, such as the plasma, energetic particle and radio wave instruments in order to study the fundamental plasma processes that occur within the magnetosphere, its dynamic boundaries and the moon-plasma interactions. Of particular interest will be the examination of the sources of plasma in the Saturnian magnetosphere, as well as the mechanisms involved in the transport of this plasma. These processes are thought to be unique to the Saturn system (because of the interactions mentioned above, as well as the contributions of the rings), making their investigation elsewhere impossible.