SCHUMANN RESONANCES AS INDICATORS FOR LIGHTNING ON TITAN

摘要

We calculate the smallest eigenmodes of the electromagnetic wave propagation in the cavity bounded by Titans surface and the ionosphere, the so-called Schumann resonances. For the analytical treatment we use a model with simplified geometry and total-reflecting boundaries. For more realistic simulations we use height profiles of conductivity and collision frequency from a model atmosphere. The Huygens Atmospheric Structure Instrument (HASI) on the Huygens probe will investigate the atmospheric structure of Titan below 170 km. The HASI/PWA (Permittivity, Wave and Altimetry) instrument will measure electrical parameters, like electron- and ion-electron conductivities. Additionally, it will investigate emissions from DC up to 10 kHz from natural wave phenomena. Lightning, if it exists and occurs frequently, should be detected by the occurence of Schumann resonances.