Seasonal Deposition and Lifting of Dust on Mars as Observed by the Curiosity Rover.

ABSTRACT: In situ measurements by the Curiosity rover provide a unique opportunity for studying the effects of dust on assets placed at the surface of Mars. Here we use in situ measurements of solar UV radiation to quantify the seasonal and interannual variability of dust accumulation on the sensor on the rover deck. We show that the amount of dust accumulated on the sensor follows a seasonal cycle, with net dust removal during the perihelion season until L_s ~ 300°, and net dust deposition until the end of the aphelion season (L_s ~ 300°-180°). We use independent in situ measurements of atmospheric opacity and pressure perturbations in combination with numerical modeling, showing that daytime convective vortices and nighttime winds are likely responsible for the seasonal dust cl

SUBMITTER: Vicente-Retortillo A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6279765 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature