Cratering Time Scales for the Galilean Satellites

摘要: An attempt is made to estimate the present cratering rate for each Galilean satellite within correct order of magnitude and extend rates back into geologic past on basis evidence from earth-moon system. For collisions with long short period comets, magnitudes size distributions comet nuclei, distribution their perihelion distances, completeness discovery are addressed. The diameters masses cometary nuclei assessed, as crater rates. dynamical relations between comets discussed, population Jupiter-crossing asteroids assessed. Estimated satellites compared variations time considered. Finally, consistency derived scales record icy discussed.