Surprising Discoveries on Enceladus: Cassini Probe Unveils Mysteries

Enceladus, one of Saturn's inner moons, has intrigued scientists with its atmosphere of water vapour emanating from its warm South Pole. Recent data presented at a major astronomy conference highlights the moon's relatively smooth southern polar region with long cracks. The Cassini spacecraft, which entered Saturn's orbit in 2004, has provided high-resolution imagery that aids in these discoveries.

What is the approximate distance of Enceladus from Saturn?

• 173 kilometers

• 500 kilometers

• 1000 kilometers

• 200 kilometers

What was the main topic of discussion at the American Astronomy Society conference?

• The size of Enceladus

• The atmosphere of Enceladus

• The orbit of Saturn

• The temperature of Enceladus

What is unique about the atmosphere of Enceladus?

• It contains water vapor

• It is made of methane

• It is composed of carbon dioxide

• It has no atmosphere

What feature is prominent in the southern polar region of Enceladus?

• Long, dominant cracks

• Lakes

• Volcanoes

• Mountain ranges

When did the Cassini spacecraft enter orbit around Saturn?

• August 2003

• September 2006

• June 2005

• July 2004