Circular polarization of sunlight reflected by JupiterCircular-polarization observations of Jupiter are described, and the circular polarization of other planets is discussed to the extent that it aids interpretation of the Jupiter data. The evidence strongly supports the interpretation that the circular polarization arises from scattering by aerosols in a gaseous atmosphere. Accurate calculations of the circular polarization are made for multiple scattering by an atmosphere with spherical aerosols, as a function of particle size and refractive index as well as the mixing ratio of aerosols and gas. The calculations for spheres and the few available circular-polarization observations of Jupiter permit only very limited constraints to be placed on the haze and cloud properties of the atmosphere of Jupiter. However, multispectral circular-polarization observations, combined with measurements of linear polarization and intensity, would permit detailed analysis of atmospheric aerosol properties.
Document ID
19770029172
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Kawata, Y. (NASA Goddard Inst. for Space Studies New York, NY, United States)
Hansen, J. E. (NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies New York, N.Y., United States)
Date Acquired
August 8, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1976
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: Colloquium on Jupiter: Studies of the interior, atmosphere, magnetosphere and satellites