Dynamics of the atmosphere of Mars.

Observations by the Mariner, Mars and Viking spacecraft have provided detailed insights into the thermal structure and dynamics of the atmosphere of Mars. While these observations have confirmed many of the expectations drawn from terrestrial experience about the atmosphere's general circulation and wave activity, there are many aspects which are due to unique attributes of Mars. These attributes include the role of condensation and sublimation of a sizeable fraction of the atmospheric mass (mainly CO₂), the radiative effects of variable dust loading, and seasonal asymmetries in insolation due to the current eccentricity of the orbit of Mars and the seasonal phasing of its perihelion.