Numerical exploration of resonant dynamics in the system of Saturnian major satellites

We numerically investigate the long-term dynamics of the Saturnian system by analyzing the Fourier spectra of ensembles of orbits taken around the current orbits of Mimas, Enceladus, Tethys, Rhea and Hyperion. We construct dynamical maps around the current position of these satellites in their respective phase spaces. The maps are the result of a great deal of numerical simulations where we adopt dense sets of initial conditions and different satellite configurations. Several structures associated to the current two-body mean-motion resonances, unstable regions associated to close approaches between the satellites, and three-body mean-motion resonances in the system, are identified in the map.

Research Highlights► We numerically study the 2:1 Enceladus-Dione, 2:1 Mimas-Tethys and 4:3 Titan-Hyperion mean-motion resonances. ► The domains in the phase space of the current resonances in the Saturnian regular satellites have been mapped. ► The resonances are filled or surrounded by secondary and three-body resonances.