Published 2021 | Version v1
Journal article

Microwave observations constrain the Depth of vortices in Jupiter's atmosphere

Description

Measuring the depth of Jupiter's storms The atmosphere of Jupiter consists of bands of winds rotating at different rates, punctuated by giant storms. The largest storm is the Great Red Spot (GRS), which has persisted for more than a century. It has been unclear whether the storms are confined to a thin layer near the top of the atmosphere or if they extend deep into the planet. Bolton et al . used microwave observations from the Juno spacecraft to observe several storms and vortices. They found that the storms extended below the depths at which water and ammonia are expected to condense, implying a connection with the deep atmosphere. Parisi et al . analyzed gravity measurements taken while Juno flew over the GRS. They detected a perturbation in the planet's gravitational field caused by the storm, finding that it was no more than 500 kilometers deep. In combination, these results constrain how Jupiter's meteorology links to its deep interior.

Abstract

International audience

Additional details

Identifiers

URL
https://hal.archives-ouvertes.fr/hal-03551809
URN
urn:oai:HAL:hal-03551809v1

Origin repository

Origin repository
UNICA