Circulation of Venusian Atmosphere at 90-110 km Based on Apparent Motions of the O2 1.27 μm Nightglow From VIRTIS-M (Venus Express) Data
Journal
Date Issued
2018
Author(s)
Abstract
The paper is devoted to the investigation of Venus mesosphere circulation at 90-110 km altitudes, where tracking of the O2(a1∆g) 1.27 μm nightglow is practically the only method of studying the circulation. The images of the nightglow were obtained by VIRTIS-M on Venus Express over the course of more than 2 years. The resulting global mean velocity vector field covers the nightside between latitudes 75°S-20°N and local time 19-5 h. The main observed mode of circulation is two opposite flows from terminators to midnight; however, the wind speed in the eastward direction from the morning side exceeds the westward (evening) by 20-30 m/s, and the streams "meet" at 22.5 ± 0.5 h. The influence of underlying topography was suggested in some cases: Above mountain regions, flows behave as if they encounter an "obstacle" and "wrap around" highlands. Instances of circular motion were discovered, encompassing areas of 1,500-4,000 km.
Volume
45
Issue
5
Start page
2554
Issn Identifier
0094-8276
Ads BibCode
2018GeoRL..45.2554G
Rights
open.access
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