Pan
Pan is the second closest moon to Saturn. It orbits within a gap in the ring system called the Encke Gap.
Pan seen side-on through Saturn's rings.
Credit: NASA/JPL/Space Science Institute
Facts About Pan:
- Too small to have become spherical, Pan is shaped a bit like a walnut.
- Its orbit keeps the Encke Gap clear of ring particles.
- Pan creates a gravitational disturbance that leaves a wavy pattern in the rings on either side of the Encke Gap.
Classification: Moon (orbiting Saturn)
Names: Pan, Saturn XVIII
Discovered: 1990 by Mark R. Showalter