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Scientists have discovered that gravity waves—phenomena that occur when air masses rise and fall under the force of gravity—play a key role in shaping atmospheric flows on Mars. The discovery helps us better understand how the Red Planet's atmosphere works and could be useful for planning future missions.
The study was conducted using the Ensemble Mars Atmosphere Reanalysis System (EMARS), which combines data from orbiters over several decades. The scientists focused on periods free of global dust storms to more accurately assess the impact of various phenomena on air circulation. Because gravitational waves are too small to be directly detected, their role was determined through indirect changes in the movement of air currents.
The results showed that gravity waves play a crucial role in the middle atmosphere of Mars at altitudes of 30 to 60 kilometers. They provide air exchange between the equator and the poles, which shapes the overall structure of atmospheric circulation. This was an unexpected discovery, since it was previously believed that large-scale Rossby waves dominate at these altitudes, similar to the Earth's stratosphere.
The researchers suggest that during global dust storms, gravitational waves can become even more powerful, significantly altering atmospheric circulation. This discovery will allow for more accurate climate models of Mars, which is especially important for preparing future manned missions.
Scientists have discovered that gravity waves—phenomena that occur when air masses rise and fall under the force of gravity—play a key role in shaping atmospheric flows on Mars. The discovery helps us better understand how the Red Planet's atmosphere works and could be useful for planning future missions.
The study was conducted using the Ensemble Mars Atmosphere Reanalysis System (EMARS), which combines data from orbiters over several decades. The scientists focused on periods free of global dust storms to more accurately assess the impact of various phenomena on air circulation. Because gravitational waves are too small to be directly detected, their role was determined through indirect changes in the movement of air currents.
The results showed that gravity waves play a crucial role in the middle atmosphere of Mars at altitudes of 30 to 60 kilometers. They provide air exchange between the equator and the poles, which shapes the overall structure of atmospheric circulation. This was an unexpected discovery, since it was previously believed that large-scale Rossby waves dominate at these altitudes, similar to the Earth's stratosphere.
The researchers suggest that during global dust storms, gravitational waves can become even more powerful, significantly altering atmospheric circulation. This discovery will allow for more accurate climate models of Mars, which is especially important for preparing future manned missions.
