image: This raw image is a composite of three different wavelengths, resulting in the colored image A (ORB4369_6) in the northern hemisphere with a clear visible wave packet. Panel (b) shows the same image after being processed and cylindrical projected using OMEGA-Py at a wavelength of 0.5 μμm. Panle (c) shows a diagram of the morphological proprieties measured on the wave packets. The blue, pink and yellow colored lines represent how the horizontal wavelength (λ), packet width and packet length are measured, respectively. The angle (θ) is the orientation of the wave packet relative to the parallel.
Credit: F. Brasil, P. Machado, G. Gilli, A. Cardesín-Moinelo, J. E. Silva, D. Espadinha, L. Riu, J. Carter, C. Wilson
Atmospheric waves are “wave-shaped disturbances that travel through the planet’s atmosphere, much like waves moving across the surface of water,” explains the study “Atmospheric Gravity Waves in Mars' Lower Atmosphere: Nadir Observations From OMEGA/Mars Express Data.” The researchers focused on this energy, which has a significant impact on the planet's climate. The data, collected by the Observatoire pour la Minéralogie, l’Eau, les Glaces et l’Activité (OMEGA) from the European Mars Express space mission, served as the foundation for this ambitious analysis.
The researchers examined 263 groups of atmospheric waves and conducted a detailed analysis of 125 of them. Three major phenomena were studied: dry ice waves, water waves, and dust storms. The biggest challenge? Identifying images with and without clouds among hundreds of thousands of photos—since clouds are rare and scattered on Mars.
This study, based on two decades of data, provides a deeper understanding of Martian climate. “The differences between Mars and Earth are even greater than we thought. There is more asymmetry between the southern and northern hemispheres than previously believed,” explains Pedro Machado, a researcher at the Faculty of Sciences of the University of Lisbon and one of the lead authors of the study, which involved nine experts from various countries.
Francisco Brasil and Pedro Machado have made history with this publication, but their work is far from over. They are currently analyzing additional data and developing a new study method that will allow not only the observation of atmospheric waves but also the wind fields of a distant Mars—one that is becoming increasingly familiar.
Journal
AGU Advances
Method of Research
Experimental study
Article Title
Atmospheric Gravity Waves in Mars' Lower Atmosphere: Nadir Observations From OMEGA/Mars Express Data
Article Publication Date
4-Mar-2025