Estimation of Titan’s ionospheric density using planetary radio occultation

Estimates of Titan’s ionospheric density have predominantly relied on in-situ measurements from the Cassini spacecraft, which concluded its mission in 2017. Consequently, these data suffer from limited spatial and temporal coverage. This study introduces a novel approach to density estimation by utilizing Saturnian auroral radio emissions that have traversed Titan’s ionosphere. By characterizing density structures in regions and time intervals previously inaccessible, we aim to conduct a comprehensive statistical analysis of the impacts of solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation and Saturn’s magnetospheric plasma. This will ultimately help elucidate the full picture of Titan’s atmospheric environment. Currently, our analysis is focused on the 77th Titan flyby (T77), from which we anticipate deriving at least 30 sets of density estimates.(Written by KATO Takeru.)