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Spectra of simulated lightning on Venus, Jupiter, and TitanLaser-induced plasmas in various gas mixtures were used to simulate lightning in other planetary atmospheres. This method of simulation has the advantage of producing short-duration, high-temperature plasmas free from electrode contamination. The laser-induced plasma discharges in air are shown to accurately simulate terrestrial lightning and can be expected to simulate lightning spectra in other planetary atmospheres. Spectra from 240 to 880 nm are presented for simulated lightning in the atmospheres of Venus, earth, Jupiter, and Titan. The spectra of lightning on the other giant planets are expected to be similar to that of Jupiter because the atmospheres of these planets are composed mainly of hydrogen and helium. The spectra of Venus and Titan show substantial amounts of radiation due to the presence of carbon atoms and ions and show CN Violet radiation. Although small amounts of CH4 and NH3 are present in the Jovian atmosphere, only emission from hydrogen and helium is observed. Most differences in the spectra can be understood in terms of the elemental ratios of the gas mixtures. Consequently, observations of the spectra of lightning on other planets should provide in situ estimates of the atmospheric and aerosol composition in the cloud layers in which lightning is occurring. In particular, the detection of inert gases such as helium should be possible and the relative abundance of these gases compared to major constituents might be determined.
Document ID
19860037916
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Borucki, W. J.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Mckenzie, R. L.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Mckay, C. P.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Duong, N. D.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA, United States)
Boac, D. S.
(Russmark Inc. Cupertino, CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 12, 2013
Publication Date
November 1, 1985
Publication Information
Publication: Icarus
Volume: 64
ISSN: 0019-1035
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Report/Patent Number
ISSN: 0019-1035
Accession Number
86A22654
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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