Today on Galileo - May 8, 1997
The last two closest approach points are passed today on Galileo, both within the first six hours of the day. Europa closest approach occurs at a range of just under 1.3 million kilometers (about 0.8 million miles). Jupiter closest approach follows about two hours later at a distance just over 660,000 kilometers (about 410,000 miles).
Today's observation schedule is highly geared toward Jupiter's atmosphere. Observations of Jupiter's south pole region are performed throughout the day. However, starting mid-morning, observations, performed primarily by the PPR (Photopolarimeter Radiometer), include photometry observations (looking at light intensities), north-south strips, regional maps, Great Red Spot, and hot spot observations (together with NIMS - Near Infrared Mapping Spectrometer). In addition, the UVS (Ultraviolet Spectrometer) performs more observations looking for aurora on Jupiter.
Also today, Europa is observed by NIMS and Metis is observed by SSI (Solid State Imaging camera). Lastly, PPR performs a series of polarimetry observations on all four Galilean satellites. These observations are part of a campaign to obtain samples over all solar phase angles at less than 10 degree phase angle resolution. They will provide information on surface texture and light scattering properties.