JultikaUniversity of Oulu repository

Abstract

This thesis reviews studies about the lakes and seas of Saturn’s moon, Titan. Conditions on Titan’s surface are first estimated to validate that substances in Titan’s atmosphere can exist in liquid phase. This is followed by descriptions of devices that have been used to study Titan from Earth, space and on its surface. Research concerning the detection and distribution of the lakes are then discussed. Features of the lakes such as surface areas, chemical compositions and formations like shores are looked into. Results from models that describe liquid currents driven by tidal forces, wind, temperature differences and rain induced density differences are given. This leads into discussion of liquid surface waves. Titan’s potential for supporting life is also considered. Observation of a disappearing and reappearing region in Titan’s sea, the Magic Island phenomenon, is construed and possible causes for this phenomenon are examined. Lastly, future mission projects that are capable of studying the lakes in situ are described with the emphasis on the Titan Submarine project.