Strange hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole.

Illingworth, an astronomer at the University of California, Santa Cruz, says that the hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole is a result of standing waves created by the planet's rotation. This phenomenon has been observed on other planets, such as Jupiter. Researchers at the Cassini Imaging Central Laboratory for Observations (CICLOPS) have even created a movie of the hexagonal shape using data from the Cassini spacecraft. Scientists believe that this phenomenon is caused by the planet's strong winds and its unusual shape. However, more research is needed to fully understand this mysterious feature. In summary, the hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole is a result of standing waves caused by the planet's rotation, and similar phenomena have been observed
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CICLOPS (Cassini Imaging Central Laboratory for Observations) has a movie of the hexagonal shape http://ciclops.org//view_media.php?id=30058.

Garth
 

FAQ: Strange hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole.

1. What is the strange hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole?

The strange hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole is a unique atmospheric feature that has been captured by spacecraft and telescopes. It is a six-sided jet stream that is larger than the Earth's diameter and rotates in sync with the planet's rotation.

2. How was the hexagonal shape discovered?

The hexagonal shape was first discovered by the Voyager spacecraft in the early 1980s. It was later studied in more detail by the Cassini spacecraft, which arrived at Saturn in 2004 and has been continuously observing the planet's atmosphere since then.

3. What causes the hexagonal shape to form?

Scientists believe that the hexagonal shape is formed by the interaction of Saturn's atmosphere with its strong eastward winds. The winds create a standing wave pattern, with six sides, that is then maintained by the planet's rotation.

4. Is the hexagonal shape unique to Saturn?

While the hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole is the most prominent and well-studied, similar shapes have been observed on other planets, such as Jupiter and Neptune. However, Saturn's hexagon is by far the largest and most well-defined.

5. What can we learn from studying the hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole?

Studying the hexagonal shape on Saturn's north pole can provide valuable insights into the planet's atmospheric dynamics and the behavior of jet streams. It also helps us better understand the similarities and differences between planetary atmospheres and how they are affected by various factors.

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