Radio wavelength observations of objects in the Solar System give information on their physical and chemical structure and the structure of their magnetospheres and atmospheres. The magnetospheric studies use observations of the synchrotron radiation from relativistic electrons trapped in a magnetosphere to map out the particle distributions and magnetic field topologies. Atmospheric studies use radio data to probe levels in the atmosphere deeper than those which are probed with observations at other wavelengths. Dr. De Pater will use this grant to continue her studies of objects in the Solar System at centimeter and millimeter wavelengths. The objects to be investigated include the gaseous giant planets Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune; the Earth- like planets Venus, Mars, and Mercury; the galilean satellites; and various new and periodic comets which come close to the Sun.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Astronomical Sciences (AST)
Application #
8900156
Program Officer
Vernon Pankonin
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1989-06-01
Budget End
1992-11-30
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1989
Total Cost
$154,960
Indirect Cost
Name
University of California Berkeley
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Berkeley
State
CA
Country
United States
Zip Code
94704