Windows of Habitability in the Jovian System From Coupled Thermal-Orbital Evolution Models

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ABSTRACTP.I.: Moore, William Proposal Number: AST-9978225"LExEn: Windows of Habitability in the Jovian System from Coupled Thermal-Orbital Evolution Models"This project is an investigation of the combined effects of heat transfer, orbital dynamics and tidal dissipation within the Galilean moon system (Io, Europa, Ganymede and Callisto). Developing efficient computer codes for spherical-shell thermal convection with variable properties and internal heating is the primary focus of the effort. The computer code developed is being used to model the evolution of tidally interacting systems in order to place constraints on where and when liquid water may exist. Such environments may provide habitats for life. In addition, the thermomechanical behavior of ice and silicates undergoing melting into thermal convection calculation will be applicable to other geophysical heat transfer problems. The calculation of heat flow out of the cores of Io and Ganymede will help understand the magnetic signatures detected by the Galileo spacecraft. This information will aid the planning of future exploration of these potential habitats.This project is part of the NSF Life in Extreme Environments (LExEn) program. Funding is provided by the NSF Division of Astronomical Science Stellar Astronomy & Astrophysics (AST/SAA) program, the Division of Biological Sciences Microbiology (BIO/MCB) program, and the Division of Chemistry (CHE).