Calypso [ka-LIP-so] and Telesto [tah-LESS-toh] are known as the "Tethys Trojans" because they circle Saturn in the same orbit as Tethys, about 60 degrees ahead of and behind it. While Telesto is the "leading Trojan," Calypso is the "trailing Trojan." Both of these moons were discovered in 1980 using ground-based observations.
Flyby Dates
No targeted flyby.
Closest approach: June 30, 2004 -- 52,080 kilometers (32,361 miles)
Fast Facts
Discovered in 1980 by Brad Smith, Harold Reitsema, Stephen Larson and John Fountain
Distance from Saturn: 294,660 km (183,093 miles)
Equatorial diameter: 30 x 16 x 16 km (19 x 10 x 10 miles)
Mass: 8 x 1017 kg (17.6 x 1017 lbs)
Science Goals
Determine general characteristics and geology of Calypso
Define the different physical processes that created the surface of Calypso
Investigate composition and distribution of surface materials on Calypso -- particularly the dark, organic-rich materials and condensed ice with a low melting point
Determine the bulk composition and internal structure of Calypso
Investigate interaction of Calypso with Saturn's magnetosphere and ring system
Calypso [ka-LIP-so] and Telesto [tah-LESS-toh] are known as the "Tethys Trojans" because they circle Saturn in the same orbit as Tethys, about 60 degrees ahead of and behind it. While Telesto is the "leading Trojan," Calypso is the "trailing Trojan." Both of these moons were discovered in 1980 using ground-based observations.
