Scientists observing Jupiter through the Very Large Telescope in Chile have discovered a spot on the planet’s surface which is significantly colder than the surrounding area. The patch has been observed in data stretching as far back as the researchers have access. It was seen to change shape and size rapidly while remaining in the same general location. Also, it is believed to be related to Jupiter’s auroras and weather patterns in the atmosphere.
Jupiter Has A Great Cold Spot As Well As A Red One
The Great Cold Spot was discovered by a team of researchers from the University of Leicester in England. Thanks to the Very Large Telescope in Chile, the astronomers measured the temperature and density of Jupiter’s upper atmosphere. They were not specifically looking for anything like the Great Cold Spot. AS such, its discovery “was a surprise to us,” said Dr. Tom Stallard, the head researcher of the team.
“This is the first time any weather feature in Jupiter’s upper atmosphere has been observed away from the planet’s bright aurorae.”
Currently, it is hypothesized that the Great Cold Spot results from the influence that Jupiter’s auroras have on the planet’s weather. Such an event can be observed on Earth as well, but there are several fundamental differences between the two worlds. These cause their auroras to have different effects on global temperature.
Earth’s auroras are more volatile, influenced heavily by energy from the Sun. Jupiter is much farther from the Sun, so its auroras are impacted more by emissions from its moons, which are lower in energy and more stable. This causes Earth’s auroras to distribute heat across the planet, while on Jupiter heat patterns are more consistent. In addition, Jupiter spins very quickly, which causes heat and energy to gather at the poles.
Although temperature vortices caused by auroras interacting with the upper atmosphere have been observed on Earth, nobody expected to see a pattern like that on Jupiter. Additionally, the long-term stability of the vortex is stirring interest among researchers. They now believe that similar patterns could be detected on other planets within the solar system. This may one day lead to a greater understanding of how planetary weather systems function.
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