A comprehensive catalog of clouds observed on Mars has revealed the planet’s astonishing range of atmospheric phenomena, many of which are unlike anything seen on Earth. Despite its thin atmosphere composed mainly of carbon dioxide, Mars can produce astonishing cloud formations when conditions are right. New Scientist Report.
Daniela Tirsch at the German Aerospace Center and her colleagues have created a “cloud atlas” using images taken over two decades by the European Space Agency’s Mars Express spacecraft to better understand these patterns and their impact on Mars’ climate.
Some of the clouds observed resemble clouds found on Earth, such as gravity wave clouds and cloud streets. These clouds are formed by atmospheric disturbances caused by Martian surface features or chaotic currents within the atmosphere. However, the unique atmospheric conditions of Mars give rise to clouds that have no terrestrial analogs.
For example, tall dust clouds are a distinctive feature of the Martian atmosphere. These clouds can extend for hundreds of kilometers and are red in color due to the large amount of Martian dust they contain. Additionally, orographic clouds form when air is pushed upward by mountains and volcanoes, sometimes combined with dust or dust storms to create patterns that resemble volcanic eruptions.
Twilight clouds, which appear near the horizon at sunrise or sunset on Mars, are particularly interesting. These clouds can take a variety of forms, from thin cirrus-like structures to strange, tufted spots. Their appearance and behavior are influenced by many factors, including the angle of sunlight, the composition of the atmosphere, and the presence of dust or other particles.
The diversity of cloud structures observed on Mars highlights the complexity of the planet’s atmospheric dynamics. By studying these clouds, scientists can gain valuable information about the Martian climate, the circulation of the atmosphere, and the role of dust in shaping the planet’s environment.
