A Theory about a Hidden Evander-Size Impact and the Renewal of the Intermediate Cratered Terrain on Dione

The study introduces a theory about an Evander-size impact on the surface of Dione. Our suspects relatively low-velocity (≤5 km/s) collision between ca. 50–80 km diameter object and Dione, which might have resulted in resurfacing one satellite’s intermediate cratered terrains various ways, such as planing by “plowing” ricocheting ejectiles, ejecta blanket covering, partial melting, impact-triggered diapir formation associated with cryotectonism effusive cryo-slurry outflows. Modeling parameters size mapping potential secondary crater distribution target location may function first test plausibility to reveal collision, be hidden younger marks formed during, e.g., Antenor, Dido, Romulus, Remus events. source impactor been Saturn-specific planetocentric debris, unique population suspected Saturnian system. Other possible candidates are asteroid(s) appearing during outer Solar System’s heavy bombardment period, or happened “giant phase” early