The Jovian magnetosphere, with its strong magnetic field and the rapid
rotation of the planet, presents new opportunities and challenges for the
use of electrodynamic tethers. An overview of the basic plasma physics
properties of an electrodynamic tether moving through the Jovian magnetosphere
will be presented. Tether use for both propulsion and power generation
are considered. Close to the planet, tether propulsive forces are found
to be as high as 50 Newtons and power levels as high as 1 million Watts.
For further information regarding the Space Physics Colloquium
contact:
Ken
Wright or Jim Sommer