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Possible dust devils - Vortices on MarsThis paper presents the results of a study of local vortices, and dust devils, on Mars as observed by Viking Landers 1 and 2. It is found that these vortices are most common during Martian spring and summer, as occurs on earth. Seven of the vortices involve wind speeds that may raise dust from the Martian surface. There is no indication that these possible dust devils contribute to the planet-wide spread of major dust storms. However, it appears that they may help in maintaining the atmospheric dust content. The data indicate that there is no preference in rotation direction, at least to core diameters of 300 m (corresponding to a region of influence of about 3 km diameter).
Document ID
19840035022
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Ryan, J. A.
(California Univ. Fullerton, CA, United States)
Lucich, R. D.
(California State University Fullerton, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
December 20, 1983
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Geophysical Research
Volume: 88
ISSN: 0148-0227
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Accession Number
84A17809
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-7614
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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