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Dynamics of the Uranian and Saturnian satellite systems - a chaotic route to melting Miranda

Journal Article · · Icarus; (United States)
Miranda's anomalously large inclination, in conjunction with the postaccretional resurfacing of both Miranda and Ariel and anomalously large eccentricities characterizing the inner Uranian satellites, are presently held to suggest the disruption of resonant configurations that once existed in this satellite system. Classical analytical methods for the dynamics of resonance are here used to demonstrate how temporary capture into a second- or higher-order resonance can generate large increases in eccentricity and inclination on comparatively short time-scales. Such capture into resonance may result in chaotic motion. 66 references.
Research Organization:
Cornell Univ., Ithaca, NY (USA); Queen Mary College, London (England)
OSTI ID:
6493972
Journal Information:
Icarus; (United States), Journal Name: Icarus; (United States) Vol. 76; ISSN ICRSA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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