Events on board the Spacecraft this week include two data playbacks from the CDA (Cosmic Dust Analyzer) and
the standard Periodic Engineering Maintenance. Results from this activity and from real-time commands sent
to clear the AACS highwater marks show that Cassini is in excellent health and operating normally. The speed of
the spacecraft can be viewed on the “Where is Cassini Now?” web page
(http://www.jpl.nasa.gov/cassini/today/)
Development of the Cruise 18 sequence continues on schedule.
The Titan Orbiter Science Team (TOST) met for two days this week to discuss the allocation of science observing
time around each of the 44 Titan closest approaches in the tour. Resource conflicts are being resolved and
blocks of time are being negotiated between each of the 12 science instrument teams on Cassini. The main focus
of the team is on the closest approach +/- 30 minute time periods. A PSG telecon is being planned for the first
week in January to solicit feedback from the PSG on the TOST progress and guidance on the major issues yet to
be resolved.
Jupiter Working Group Meetings began this week to examine the next level of detail associated with the Jupiter
Operations Concept and the Jupiter Planning schedule. This group will focus on developing detailed interfaces,
products, and processes required to produce a high-fidelity Jupiter plan.
Cassini personnel staffed a Cassini exhibit at Planetfest in Pasadena. This event was sponsored by the Planetary
Society.
The Saturn Educator Guide was delivered to JPL Graphics for final corrections prior to printing. The document
should be available in January.
Cassini Outreach
Cassini Mission to Saturn and Titan
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
California Institute of Technology
National Aeronautics and Space Administration
