Helene [hell EEN]is referred to as a Trojan moon because it orbits Saturn in the Lagrange point of the larger moon Dione. Discovered in 1980 during the Earth ring-plane crossing by J. Lecasheux et al., the moon is small and very faint.
Flyby Dates
No targeted flyby.
Closest approach: Aug. 17, 2006 -- 49,209 kilometers (30,577 miles)
Fast Facts
Discovered by P. Laques and J. Lecacheus in 1980
Distance from Saturn: 377,400 km (234,505 miles)
Equatorial Diameter: 36 x 32 x 30 km (22 x 19 x 18.6 miles)
Mass: 8 x 1017 kg (17.6 x 1017 lbs)
Science Goals
Determine the characteristics and geological history of Helene
Define the different physical processes that created the surface of Helene
Investigate composition and distribution of surface materials on Helene -- particularly dark, organic-rich material and condensed ices
Determine the bulk composition and internal structure of Helene
Investigate interaction of Helene with Saturn's magnetosphere and ring system
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Helene [hell EEN]is referred to as a Trojan moon because it orbits Saturn in the Lagrange point of the larger moon Dione. Discovered in 1980 during the Earth ring-plane crossing by J. Lecasheux et al., the moon is small and very faint.
