Abstract
An analysis of the Lowell Observatory photographic plates of Saturn gave the following results: (1) ring A and B show peculiar brightness distributions around the planet, from which we conclude that both are composed of particles in synchronous rotation. (2) The leading side of the particles in ring A is brighter than the trailing side by about 4%, which may indicate an interaction between such particles and the interplanetary medium. (3) Scans of the rings across the major axis show a small (∼0.3″) region of enhanced brightness, from which we derive a value ofT s =10h13 m. 8±5 m. 4 for the actual planetary rotational period of Saturn. (4) In order to explain the synchronous rotation, the particles in ring A have to be at least 42 m in diameter.
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Ferrín, I. On the structure of Saturn's rings and the ‘real’ rotational period for the planet. Astrophys Space Sci 33, 453–457 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00640110
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00640110