Mars atmospheric CO2 clouds during the Northern Hemisphere winter

Details

Supervisors

Dehant, Véronique ; Karatekin, Ozgur

Faculty

Faculté des sciences

Degree label

Master [120] en sciences physiques, à finalité didactique

Abstract

In this study, we investigate the seasonal and interannual variability of Martian CO2 clouds, focusing on Martian Years (MY) 34, 35, and 36, corresponding to Earth dates from May 5, 2017, to December 26, 2022. Utilizing data from the Mars Climate Sounder (MCS), we analyzed over 1.19 million atmospheric profiles to explore cloud dynamics, with a particular emphasis on the northern hemisphere during winter and interannual variability. Our analysis revealed distinct patterns in cloud occurrence, altitude, and duration, influenced primarily by latitude and northern winter season. The highest concentration of clouds was observed at latitudes above 50°N, indicative of Martian winter conditions in the North Pole. Equatorial regions exhibited shorter-lived mesospheric cloud formations. Interannual variability was also studied, revealing differences in cloud distribution and frequency potentially linked to atmospheric dust variations and storm activities.