Cassini's high-gain antenna is able to operate
at S, X, Ka, and Ku-band frequencies. In addition to communications
(X-band between Earth and orbiter, and S-band from probe to orbiter),
radio science measurements are also possible for probing Saturn
and satellite gravity fields, rings, atmospheres, and surfaces.
This artist's conception illustrates the capacity of the Cassini
radar to map the haze-enshrouded surface of Titan using the Ku-band
frequency. Radar images of the surface are taken at a typical
resolution of about 500 meters. Altimetry and passive radiometry
measurements are also made. Approximately 1% of Titan's surface
can be mapped by the high-resolution Cassini radar during a Titan
flyby. Full mapping coverage of Titan will be accomplished by
combining the high-resolution radar mapping with lower-resolution
passive radiometry. (P-46225AC)
