Geophysical implications of the long-wavelength topography of the Saturnian satellites

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[1] We use limb profiles to quantify the long‐wavelength topography of the Saturnian satellites. The degree 2 shapes of Mimas, Enceladus, and Tethys are not consistent with hydrostatic equilibrium. We derive 2‐D topographic maps out to spherical harmonic degree 8. There is a good correlation with topography derived from stereo techniques. If uncompensated, topography at degree 3 and higher is large enough to be detectable during close spacecraft flybys. If not properly accounted for, this topography may bias estimates of a satellite’s degree 2 gravity coefficients (which are used to determine the moment of inertia). We also derive a one‐dimensional variance spectrum (a measure of how roughness varies with wavelength) for each body. The short‐wavelength spectral slope is − 2t o−2.5, similar to silicate bodies. However, unlike the terrestrial planets, each satellite spectrum shows a reduction in slope at longer wavelengths. If this break in slope is due to a transition from flexural to isostatic support, the globally averaged elastic thickness Te of each satellite may be derived. We obtain Te values of ≥5 km, 1.5–5 km, ≈5 km, and ≥5 km for Tethys, Dione, Rhea, and Iapetus, respectively. For Europa, we obtain Te ≈ 1.5 km. These estimates are generally consistent with estimates made using other techniques. For Enceladus, intermediate wavelengths imply Te ≥ 0.5 km, but the variance spectrum at wavelengths greater than 150 km is probably influenced by long‐ wavelength processes such as convection or shell thickness variations. Impact cratering may also play a role in determining the variance spectra of some bodies. Citation: Nimmo, F., B. G. Bills, and P. C. Thomas (2011), Geophysical implications of the long‐wavelength topography of the Saturnian satellites, J. Geophys. Res., 116, E11001, doi:10.1029/2011JE003835.