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Mars: microwave detection of carbon monoxide
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 3, 1977
Summary
Scientists detected carbon monoxide (CO) in Mars
Area of Science:
- Planetary Science
- Atmospheric Science
Background:
- Carbon monoxide (CO) is a key trace gas in the Martian atmosphere.
- Previous remote sensing techniques had limitations in probing higher atmospheric altitudes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detect the 115-gigahertz microwave line of carbon monoxide in the Martian atmosphere.
- To extend the altitude range for sensing CO above the previously accessible region.
Main Methods:
- Utilized microwave spectroscopy to analyze the Martian atmospheric spectrum.
- Focused on the specific 115-gigahertz spectral line attributed to carbon monoxide.
Main Results:
- Successfully detected the 115-gigahertz microwave line of carbon monoxide in Mars' spectrum.
- The measurement is sensitive to CO concentrations between the surface and approximately 50 km altitude.
- This represents a significant extension of the altitude region previously sensed for CO.
Conclusions:
- The detection confirms the presence and distribution of carbon monoxide in the upper Martian atmosphere.
- This new sensing capability provides valuable data for atmospheric models and understanding Martian atmospheric dynamics.
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