Radar probing of Jovian icy moons: Understanding subsurface water and structure detectability in the JUICE and Europa missions

摘要: Abstract Radar probing of Jovian icy satellites is fundamental for understanding the moons' origin and their thermal evolution as potential habitable environments in our Solar System. Using current state knowledge geological geophysical properties Ganymede, Europa Callisto, we perform a comprehensive radar detectability study to quantify exploration depth lower limit subsurface identification water key tectonic structural elements. To achieve these objectives, establish parametric dielectric models that reflect different hypotheses on formation each moon. The are then used FDTD propagation simulations at 9-MHz sounding frequency proposed both ESA JUICE NASA missions. We investigate above galactic noise level four predominant features: brittle-ductile interfaces, shallow faults, brine aquifers, hypothesized global oceans. For results suggest interface could be within range bright terrains, but more challenging dark terrains. Moreover, slope variation possible after clutter reduction focusing. Europa, detection elements few kilometers deep (such fractures, faults lenses) achievable not compromised by surface clutter. objective detecting ocean also doable under convective conductive hypotheses. Finally, waves can an average penetration ∼15 km, although Callisto's does sufficiently strong contrasts produce unambiguous returns.