Huygens at Titan : a Summary of Science Results from Engineering

Introduction: The unique data generated by the ESA Huygens probe [1] are the only in-situ measurements at Titan and thus will be key factors in interpretation of Cassini orbiter data and in design of future missions which might include balloons and landers. Here I summarize some recent results from the simple 'engineering' sensors on the probe: these include the constitution of the Titan surface from impact measurements and the temperature history of heated components embedded in the ground, surface roughness from reflection of the Huygens radio signal post-impact, and constraints on turbulence and near-surface winds. These results underscore the importance of making even simple housekeeping measurements [2] available, with their documentation, in the public archive.