Mars thermospheric general circulation model: Calculations for the arrival of Phobos at Mars
Abstract
The NCAR thermospheric general circulation model (TGCM) for the Earth’s thermosphere has been modified to examine the three-dimensional structure and circulation of the upper mesosphere and thermosphere of Mars (MTGCM). The computational framework and major processes unique to a CO2 thermosphere are similar to those utilized in a recent Venus TGCM. Mean orbital, seasonal, and solar conditions are specified. An Equinox version of the MTGCM is used to predict the Mars solar driven global circulation and structure for a non-dusty (quiet) lower atmosphere at the time of arrival of the two Phobos spacecraft.
- Publication:
-
Geophysical Research Letters
- Pub Date:
- December 1988
- DOI:
- 10.1029/GL015i013p01511
- Bibcode:
- 1988GeoRL..15.1511B
- Keywords:
-
- Atmospheric Circulation;
- Atmospheric Models;
- Mars Atmosphere;
- Mars Probes;
- Thermosphere;
- Atmospheric Heating;
- Atmospheric Temperature;
- Carbon Dioxide;
- Cooling;
- Diurnal Variations;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration;
- Planetology: Solid Surface Planets and Satellites: Ionospheres;
- Atmospheric Composition and Structure: Thermosphere-composition and chemistry;
- Planetology: Solid Surface Planets and Satellites: Atmospheric composition and chemistry;
- Planetology: Solid Surface Planets and Satellites: Meteorology