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Venus: further evidence of vortex circulation
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 15, 1978
Summary
Mariner 10 ultraviolet images revealed a unique Venus polar vortex with a bright, elliptical cloud. This circumpolar feature, resembling a hurricane, may originate differently from other Venusian clouds.
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Atmospheric Science
- Remote Sensing
Background:
- Venus possesses a dynamic atmosphere with complex cloud systems.
- Previous observations hinted at unique polar phenomena on Venus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the structure and characteristics of a newly observed circumpolar vortex on Venus.
- To investigate the nature and potential origin of the bright polar cloud feature.
Main Methods:
- Utilized space-time composite analysis of polar stereographic ultraviolet images.
- Employed data from the Mariner 10 mission to Venus.
Main Results:
- Identified a remarkable circumpolar vortex at Venus's pole.
- Characterized the vortex by a dense, high-albedo cloud (50% brighter than surrounding clouds).
- Observed spiral cloud streaks converging into the vortex from lower latitudes, similar to terrestrial hurricanes.
- Determined the bright polar cloud is elliptical, not axisymmetric.
Conclusions:
- The Venus polar vortex exhibits unique characteristics distinct from typical atmospheric patterns.
- The high brightness and elliptical shape suggest a different origin for this polar cloud compared to the general Venusian cloud cover.
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