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The influence of non-thermal collisions in Europa's atmosphere
  • +1
  • Shane Carberry Mogan,
  • Shane R Carberry Mogan,
  • Andrew R Poppe,
  • Lucas Liuzzo
Shane Carberry Mogan

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Shane R Carberry Mogan
Space Sciences Laboratory, University of California
Andrew R Poppe
Space Sciences Laboratory, University of California
Lucas Liuzzo
Space Sciences Laboratory, University of California

Abstract

In this study, we show that non-thermal collisions can play a significant role in shaping Europa's exospheric structure. Collisions between radiolytically produced O2 and the O produced via electron impact dissociation of O2 play a significant role in affecting the exospheric structure and escape rates. Specifically, O+O2 collisions lead to the production of a non-thermal O2 population, and increase the O2 escape while decreasing the O escape. These collisions are dependent on three specific physical parameters: (1) the density of O2 , (2) the electron impact dissociation rate of O2 , and (3) the O+O2 collision cross section. We demonstrate here that O+O2 collisions affect Europa's atmosphere even in the lowest limits considered. Thus, to more accurately determine the influence O+O2 collisions have on Europa's atmosphere in preparation for the forthcoming spacecraft missions, Europa Clipper and the JUpiter ICy moons Explorer (JUICE), these physical parameters need to be better constrained.
23 Sep 2024Submitted to ESS Open Archive
23 Sep 2024Published in ESS Open Archive