Prometheus [pro-MEE-thee-us] acts as a shepherding satellite, constraining the extent of the inner edge of Saturn's F Ring. Prometheus is extremely irregular and has visible craters -- some up to 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) in diameter. However, it is much less cratered than its nearby neighbors Pandora, Janus and Epimetheus. The density of Prometheus has been estimated to be low; it is probably a porous, icy body.
Flyby Dates
No targeted flyby.
Closest approach: June 28, 2007 -- 41,947 km (26,065 miles)
Fast Facts
Discovered in 1980 by the Voyager team
Distance from Saturn: 139,353 km (85,590 miles)
Period of Orbit around Saturn: 14.7 hours
Diameter: 148 x 100 x 68 km (92 x 62 x 42 miles)
Mass: 1.9 x 1017 kg (4.18 x 1017 lbs)
Science Goals
Determine general characteristics and geological history of Prometheus
Define the different physical processes that created the surface of Prometheus
Investigate composition and distribution of surface materials on Prometheus -- particularly dark, organic-rich materials and condensed ice with a low melting point
Determine the bulk composition and internal structure of Prometheus
Investigate interaction of Prometheus with Saturn's magnetosphere and ring system
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