Daphnis (moon) facts for kids
Daphnis is a small moon that orbits the giant planet Saturn. It is a tiny moon, measuring only about 6 to 8 km across. Scientists discovered Daphnis in 2005 using images from the Cassini-Huygens space probe. This little moon has a special job: it orbits inside a clear space in Saturn's rings called the Keeler Gap.
Discovering Daphnis
Daphnis was found by scientists looking at pictures sent back by the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft. This amazing probe spent many years exploring Saturn and its many moons. The discovery in 2005 showed us another fascinating part of Saturn's ring system.
Daphnis and Saturn's Rings
Daphnis orbits right inside the Keeler Gap, which is a narrow, empty space within Saturn's A ring. This moon is known as a "shepherd moon." As Daphnis moves around Saturn, its gravity pulls on the tiny particles that make up the rings. This pulling creates cool, wavy patterns on the edges of the Keeler Gap. These waves can be seen both above and below the moon's orbit. The waves are a clear sign of Daphnis's presence and its interaction with the rings.
Images for kids
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The waves that Daphnis creates in the A ring have height. This is because its orbit is slightly tilted. When Saturn is close to its equinox, these waves cast shadows.
See also
In Spanish: Dafne (satélite) para niños
