NASA’s Mariner 9 spacecraft arrived at Mars in 1971 to find its surface hidden beneath dust kicked up by massive storms. These stormy weather patterns threaten robotic explorers, and researchers from the University of Colorado Boulder have identified factors that may lead to giant dust storms.
Using observations from NASA’s Reconnaissance Orbiter, scientists analyzed data on Martian atmosphere and terrain over 15 years. They discovered that warm and sunny weather may help trigger dust storms, which occur in about two-thirds of major events. Warm temperatures at the surface often precede these storms, with a sharp rise occurring in around 68% of cases.
While it’s difficult to prove a direct link between hot days and dusty conditions on Mars, scientists have found similarities with Earth’s weather patterns. As heat warms the surface, the atmosphere above becomes buoyant and rises, carrying dust with it. This phenomenon is similar to what occurs on Earth when heat causes air to rise.
Mars’ massive storms can cover large areas, lasting weeks at a time, and pose risks to human missions. Researchers are studying these events to improve predictions of when they might occur. The team behind the new study aims to continue understanding Martian weather patterns that lead to giant dust storms, believing their findings will be a step in the right direction for future Mars exploration.
Source: https://gizmodo.com/warm-and-sunny-weather-on-mars-could-mean-disaster-for-future-missions-2000536572