Martian Winds Pack Unexpected Punch, Reaching Speeds of 158 km/h, New Research Reveals
Bern, Switzerland – Winds on Mars are considerably stronger than previously believed, wiht observations revealing gusts reaching up to 158 kilometers per hour (98 miles per hour), according to a new study led by researchers at the university of Bern. The findings, published recently and based on data from the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Mars Express and ExoMars missions, offer a crucial new understanding of the Red Planet’s atmospheric dynamics and have implications for future exploration.
For years,scientists have struggled to accurately measure wind speeds on Mars due to its thin atmosphere. The breakthrough came through analyzing dust vortices – swirling columns of dust that act as visible markers of wind movement.Using high-resolution stereo imagery from the High Resolution Stereo Camera (HRSC) on Mars Express and the stereo and Color Surface imaging System (CaSSIS) on the exomars orbiter, the team tracked these vortices with unprecedented accuracy.
“The dust vortices function like natural landmarks that make wind movements visible,” explained the study’s lead researcher from the University of Bern.
The team identified 384 dust vortices using cassis data and 655 using HRSC. Observations show these phenomena are most common in dry regions during Martian summer and spring, typically lasting only minutes and peaking in activity between 11:00 and 14:00 local time.
The recorded wind speeds around these vortices – up to 44 meters per second (158 km/h) - dramatically exceed previous estimates, which placed average Martian wind speeds below 50 km/h with a maximum around 100 km/h. “This data helps us know where and when winds were strong enough to lift dust from the surface,” said researcher Bickel.
This finding isn’t just about understanding Martian weather. The improved understanding of wind patterns will be vital for future missions. Scientists can now refine climate models, better predict dust storm risks, and enhance the safety and efficiency of landing probes.
“Information about wind strength is also important for determining landing locations and estimating how much dust could stick to solar panels, potentially reducing the power of devices on the surface,” added Daniela Tirsch of the German Aerospace Center (DLR).
Beyond mission planning, the research sheds light on ongoing geological processes on Mars, including the formation of sand dunes and surface patterns. “These measurements pave the way for a better understanding of the geological activity that is still occurring on mars,” Bickel stated.
The study underscores the power of combining advanced imaging technology with long-term analysis to unlock the secrets of our planetary neighbor.
source: esa.int