JISCO: Jovian Interferometric Seismometer at Concordia Observatory

Abstract

Seismology is the only way to investigate the internal structure ofthe giant planets, with a lot of scientific implications such ashigh pressure physics and huge constraints on the scenario of solarsystem formation. As compared to other existing possibilities(ground based network, spacecraft), seismology of Jupiter will takea maximum benefit from the peculiarities of the Concordia station asan astronomical observatory. Indeed, the continuous temporalcoverage for all the winter season, and the quality of theatmospheric seeing, are crucial parameters for this program. Thejovian seismometer SYMPA, already used for network observations, isperfectly suitable for Dome C conditions. With the alreadyexisting small telescopes deployed in the frame of site testingprogram, seismology of Jupiter will constitute a excellentintermediate project with high scientific return, before theinstallation of large telescopes. In a second step, such aninstrument could be a first light instrument for a 1.5 m classautomatic telescope, which is to be developed as an individual stonefor a large interferometer. With this diameter, the same scientificprogram on Saturn could also be achieved.