Effect of Non-Synchronous Rotation on Surface Tidal Stress of Europa: Re-Consideration on the Constraint for Surface Rheology

Abstract

Europan visco-elastic tidal deformation due to its non-synchronous rotation is calculated. The relationship between the geological settings, the rotation period, and the surface rheology is investigated on the basis of this calculation. This investigation infers that the surface viscosity ranges between 10¹⁹ and 10²⁰ Pa.s. The approach presented here suggests possibility of estimation for the surface viscosity on solid planets and satellites through its tectonic settings.