Profiling of the radiation environment of Io torus using Juno's ASC electron measurements

Abstract

Since its orbital insertion around Jupiter on July 4, 2016, the Juno spacecraft has been navigating in a highly elliptical orbit, offering unprecedented insights into the gas giant's magnetosphere. A pivotal aspect of this mission is the analysis of the interaction between Jupiter's magnetic field and the surrounding plasma environment, particularly concerning the Io flux tube. The µASC, serving as an attitude reference for Juno's Magnetic Field investigation, has played a crucial role in continuously monitoring electron fluxes. These observations reveal a consistent depletion of electron fluxes in proximity to the Io flux tube. To date, Juno has completed 57 close approaches to Jupiter, known as perijoves, during which it has traversed the Io flux tube over 200 times. These encounters have provided a wealth of in-situ electron flux data, enabling a comprehensive profiling of the Io torus electron population.