With Enceladus in the spotlight this week (see previous post) Cassini’s camera was trained on the icy moon and captured several images which seem to show its signature polar jets in action. Spliced together, these photos create an intriguing animation that, while not exactly clear as to what’s going on, is interesting to watch.

My best guess is that we are looking at Enceladus’ geysers, the moon itself just off frame at top and brightly illuminated by the sun, which was probably behind the spacecraft at the time these images were taken. Background stars streak by, Cassini’s camera fixed on target.

Ccovered in icy rock, Enceladus is highly reflective and would create a lot of glare in this sort of scenario…especially if Cassini’s camera were set to capture the wispy jets. That would account for the bright lens flare seen here.

Of course this is all personal conjecture. This animation is made from raw images that have not been calibrated or officially released. Until the imaging team gives an explanation, if ever, it’s all just for fun.

Raw images: NASA/JPL/SSI. Animation: J. Major.