NASA’s longest-running Martian orbiter, Mars Odyssey, has captured a stunning image of Arsia Mons, the southernmost volcano in Mars’ Tharsis Montes mountain range. The 20km-tall giant towers above a sea of clouds, providing a unique perspective on the Red Planet.
The image is significant not only for its breathtaking view but also as a key piece of data for scientists. It reveals swirling water ice clouds around Arsia Mons, which form when cold Martian air is cooled rapidly and condenses into visible vapour. This phenomenon intensifies during Mars’ aphelion, resulting in the spectacular “aphelion cloud belt” stretching across the Martian equator.
Arsia Mons is a prime target for planetary scientists due to its towering height and cloudy nature, making it an essential location to study Mars’ atmosphere. The THEMIS camera on board Mars Odyssey has captured high-altitude images with a 90° rotation, enabling researchers to observe seasonal changes in Mars’ atmosphere.
This data is crucial for understanding weather patterns and planning future missions to Mars. Scientists hope that one day, human settlers will be able to take advantage of this valuable resource – water ice – which can provide drinking water, oxygen, or even rocket propellant.
NASA planetary scientist Michael D. Smith notes that the seasonal differences observed are “really significant” and offer new clues about how Mars’ atmosphere evolves over time. The THEMIS camera’s infrared capabilities also help locate buried water ice beneath the surface.
The image of Arsia Mons serves as a scientific treasure trove, offering a glimpse into what future Martian explorers might see. NASA scientist Jonathon Hill says, “We picked Arsia Mons hoping to see the summit poke above the early morning clouds… and it didn’t disappoint.”
Source: https://www.skyatnightmagazine.com/news/arsia-mons-mars-odyssey-orbiter