Energetic ions within Ganymede’s magnetospheric environment

<p>The dynamics of the energetic ion circulation within Ganymede&#8217;s magnetosphere and the related surface precipitation patterns determine the variability of surface sputtering and radiolysis and the generation of the moon&#8217;s exosphere. The planetary space weather conditions around this icy moon have a long-term influence also on its surface evolution history.</p><p>In this work, some key aspects of the energetic ion circulation within the magnetosphere of Ganymede will be discussed. The results of a single-particle Monte Carlo model driven by the electromagnetic fields from a global MHD model will be presented and compared, where possible, with other findings in literature, from a planetary space weather perspective. The estimated surface precipitation patterns for different ion species/energies and configurations between the Jupiter plasma sheet and Ganymede will be also discussed. Special focus will be given on the implications that the ion precipitation on Ganymede&#8217;s surface may have in the water sputtering rate. The results of the current study are relevant to ESA&#8217; s JUICE mission.</p>