Mars Dust Storms May Be Predictable Based on Surface Heating Patterns 524g5r Technology News

Research shows 78% of Mars dust storms are linked to surface heating, enabling possible predictions. 316w58

Written by Gadgets 360 Staff | Updated: 12 December 2024 22:00 IST

Mars Dust Storms May Be Predictable Based on Surface Heating Patterns

Photo Credit: NASA/ESA/STScI 5c4b5j

A dust storm shrouds the surface of Mars, as seen by the Hubble Space Telescope in 2018.

Highlights

Study links warm days on Mars to increased dust storm activity.
Dust storms disrupt missions, covering solar s and equipment.
Predictive models may improve dust storm forecasts on Mars.

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New research has indicated a strong connection between warm, sunny days on NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, revealing patterns that could help predict these atmospheric phenomena.

Insights into Dust Storm Patterns 1hu3v

The Earth years—collected by the Mars Climate Sounder instrument. Observations focused on two types of dust storms, categorised as "A" and "C" storms, which primarily originate in the planet's northern hemisphere and travel through Acidalia Planitia and Utopia Planitia. The study found a direct correlation between prolonged surface heating and the emergence of these storms.

In a statement, Pieris highlighted the significant impact dust storms have on Mars missions, noting their tendency to coat solar s with fine particles, which can disrupt operations. This was exemplified by NASA's Opportunity rover, which was rendered inoperable during a global dust storm.

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Potential for Forecasting Dust Storms 3h2n3p

Pieris and Hayne's research suggests the possibility of predicting Martian dust storms based on patterns of surface heating. An algorithm developed during the study has shown a 64% confidence level in forecasting "A" and "C" storms, offering a potential tool for managing the risks posed to future crewed missions.

While the study marks progress, as per reports, Hayne pointed out that fundamental questions about dust storm formation remain unanswered, including the factors that allow localised storms to grow into global events. Data from NASA's deactivated Mars Global Surveyor s the findings, showing that imbalances in solar energy absorption during warmer periods can fuel storm activity.

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