Epimetheus

Epimetheus was discovered in 1966 through Pioneer 11 spacecraft images and named after a figure from Greek mythology. With an estimated diameter of around 116 kilometers, this moon showcases a potato-like shape and is coated in icy materials characteristic of Saturn's moon system. What sets Epimetheus apart is its intricate orbital relationship with Janus. These two moons share a fascinating 1:1 mean-motion resonance, causing them to periodically swap positions approximately every 4 years, preventing collision due to their shared orbit. This co-orbital dance, driven by gravitational interactions, contributes to their dynamic system. Epimetheus' surface exhibits impact craters, indicative of its history of cosmic collisions, likely shaping its icy composition. Cassini's observations shed light on its physical attributes and the peculiar interplay between Epimetheus, Janus, and Saturn's rings, where they induce disturbances and waves as they pass by.