CICLOPS: Cassini Imaging Central Laboratory for OPerationS
The Dance of the Moon Shadows

The imminent arrival of equinox at Saturn is signaled by the shadows of its moons cast on the planet's rings. Images and an animation marking this special occasion are being released today. (Image advisory can be found here.)

Apr 2, 2009: Moon Shadow in Motion - The beauty and spectacle of celestial motion is captured in this short movie of a moon shadow darting across Saturn's rings.

Mar 23, 2009: Groundhog Day on Saturn - In this image of a Saturnian Groundhog Day, the moon Epimetheus has seen its shadow cast on the rings in a forecast of the future. Dramatic moon shadows will dance across the brilliant platform of the rings as the planet draws near its August 2009 equinox.
Mar 23, 2009: Pan's Very Own Shadow - Wendy Darling famously helped Peter Pan catch his shadow, and now Cassini captures the shadow of another Pan: Saturn's 30-kilometer (19-mile) wide moon inhabiting the Encke Gap.
Alliance Member Comments
BobbyD (Jun 13, 2009 at 10:30 PM):
These shots are just unbelievable!! Can't wait to see what's next!!
stowaway (Mar 24, 2009 at 0:34 AM):
The next several months will provide us with some great images.
libbydaddy (Mar 23, 2009 at 6:54 PM):
I'm having trouble downloading the film clip but it and the other images are impressive. I haven't commented or complimented recently but the work ethic over at Ciclops hasn't changed. Refreshing, amazing and wonderful as always. Thank you for your hard work and sharing it so quickly.
MarkG (Mar 23, 2009 at 11:55 AM):
Moon shadows on the rings, "Beaucoup Cool"!