A weird cloud forms on Mars each year and now we know why

New Scientist
New Scientist
3M ago
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Astronomers have identified the formation of a unique cloud near Mars's Arsia Mons volcano, attributed to high levels of water vapor in the atmosphere. This phenomenon, previously deemed impossible due to dust levels, is now understood through simulations that replicate the cloud's features via homogeneous nucleation. Researchers suggest that Mars can experience supersaturation, allowing for the cloud's distinctive long tail and outburst pattern, challenging previous assumptions about Martian atmospheric conditions.
A weird cloud forms on Mars each year and now we know why
A What happened
Astronomers have identified the formation of a unique cloud near Mars's Arsia Mons volcano, attributed to high levels of water vapor in the atmosphere. This phenomenon, previously deemed impossible due to dust levels, is now understood through simulations that replicate the cloud's features via homogeneous nucleation. Researchers suggest that Mars can experience supersaturation, allowing for the cloud's distinctive long tail and outburst pattern, challenging previous assumptions about Martian atmospheric conditions.
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Key insights

  • 1

    Cloud Formation Mystery: The cloud's formation was previously unexplained due to high dust levels.

  • 2

    Homogeneous Nucleation: New research shows clouds can form through a dust-free process.

  • 3

    Supersaturation on Mars: Recent findings indicate that Mars can experience higher water vapor levels.

Takeaways

This discovery enhances our understanding of Martian atmospheric dynamics.

Topics

Science & Research Research Physics