Cratering Time Scales for the Galilean Satellites

TL;DR: In this paper, an attempt is made to estimate the present cratering rate for each Galilean satellite within the correct order of magnitude and to extend the cratering rates back into the geologic past on the basis of evidence from the earth-moon system.

Abstract: An attempt is made to estimate the present cratering rate for each Galilean satellite within the correct order of magnitude and to extend the cratering rates back into the geologic past on the basis of evidence from the earth-moon system For collisions with long and short period comets, the magnitudes and size distributions of the comet nuclei, the distribution of their perihelion distances, and the completeness of discovery are addressed The diameters and masses of cometary nuclei are assessed, as are crater diameters and cratering rates The dynamical relations between long period and short period comets are discussed, and the population of Jupiter-crossing asteroids is assessed Estimated present cratering rates on the Galilean satellites are compared and variations of cratering rate with time are considered Finally, the consistency of derived cratering time scales with the cratering record of the icy Galilean satellites is discussed