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The Modern Near-Surface Martian Climate: A Review of In-situ Meteorological Data from Viking to Curiosity.

Authors :
Martínez, G.
Newman, C.
Vicente-Retortillo, A.
Fischer, E.
Renno, N.
Richardson, M.
Fairén, A.
Genzer, M.
Guzewich, S.
Haberle, R.
Harri, A.-M.
Kemppinen, O.
Lemmon, M.
Smith, M.
Torre-Juárez, M.
Vasavada, A.
Source :
Space Science Reviews. Oct2017, Vol. 212 Issue 1/2, p295-338. 44p.
Publication Year :
2017

Abstract

We analyze the complete set of in-situ meteorological data obtained from the Viking landers in the 1970s to today's Curiosity rover to review our understanding of the modern near-surface climate of Mars, with focus on the dust, CO and HO cycles and their impact on the radiative and thermodynamic conditions near the surface. In particular, we provide values of the highest confidence possible for atmospheric opacity, atmospheric pressure, near-surface air temperature, ground temperature, near-surface wind speed and direction, and near-surface air relative humidity and water vapor content. Then, we study the diurnal, seasonal and interannual variability of these quantities over a span of more than twenty Martian years. Finally, we propose measurements to improve our understanding of the Martian dust and HO cycles, and discuss the potential for liquid water formation under Mars' present day conditions and its implications for future Mars missions. Understanding the modern Martian climate is important to determine if Mars could have the conditions to support life and to prepare for future human exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
00386308
Volume :
212
Issue :
1/2
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Space Science Reviews
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
125872953
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11214-017-0360-x