NASA captures new Saturn photo

[Hum]

NASA's Cassini spacecraft has captured a gorgeous backlit image of Saturn and its rings, providing a holiday treat for scientists and the public alike.

Cassini took the photo ? actually a mosaic of 60 images ? on Oct. 17, while looking back toward the sun from a spot within Saturn's shadow. Such a view can reveal details about the planet's atmosphere and rings that aren't otherwise visible, researchers said.

The image also highlights the beauty of the ringed planet, which everyone can appreciate.

"This glorious image is our special gift to you, the people of the world, in this holiday season that brings the year 2012 to a close," Cassini imaging team lead Carolyn Porco, of the Space Science Institute in Boulder, Colo., said in a statement.

"I fervently hope it serves as a reminder that we humans, though troubled and warlike, are also the dreamers, thinkers, and explorers inhabiting one achingly beautiful planet, yearning for the sublime, and capable of the magnificent," she added.

Also captured in this image are two of Saturn's moons: Enceladus and Tethys. Both appear on the left side of the planet, below the rings. Enceladus is closer to the rings; Tethys is below and to the left.

more

hi-rez: http://www.nasa.gov/...4_full_full.jpg

[.Neo]

I'm a bit bored with Saturn. Time for something new.

[Shadrack]

Some amazing physics going on.

[Growled Member]

Some amazing pictures too.