Spectral location for the universal scaling regime in Martian atmospheric turbulence.

Atmospheric turbulence, irregular fluctuations of the fluid state, is studied on Mars. Universality of the turbulence spectrum underpins atmospheric models where computational requirements preclude full fidelity simulations of the smallest scales. However, there are discrepancies among reports on the existence and spectral location of universal scaling in Martian atmospheric data.

An acoustic investigation of the near-surface turbulence on Mars.

The Perseverance rover is carrying out an original acoustic experiment on Mars: the SuperCam microphone records the spherical acoustic waves generated by laser sparks at distances from 2 m to more than 8 m. These N-shaped acoustic waves scatter from the multiple local heterogeneities of the turbulent atmosphere. Therefore, large and random fluctuations of sound travel time and intensity develop as the waves cross the medium.

The sound of a Martian dust devil.

Dust devils (convective vortices loaded with dust) are common at the surface of Mars, particularly at Jezero crater, the landing site of the Perseverance rover. They are indicators of atmospheric turbulence and are an important lifting mechanism for the Martian dust cycle. Improving our understanding of dust lifting and atmospheric transport is key for accurate simulation of the dust cycle and for the prediction of dust storms, in addition to being important for future space exploration as grain impacts are implicated in the degradation of hardware on the surface of Mars.

Hexagonal Prisms Form in Water-Ice Clouds on Mars, Producing Halo Displays Seen by Perseverance Rover.

Observations by several cameras on the Perseverance rover showed a 22° scattering halo around the Sun over several hours during northern midsummer (solar longitude 142°). Such a halo has not previously been seen beyond Earth. The halo occurred during the aphelion cloud belt season and the cloudiest time yet observed from the Perseverance site.

Dust, Sand, and Winds Within an Active Martian Storm in Jezero Crater.

Rovers and landers on Mars have experienced local, regional, and planetary-scale dust storms. However, in situ documentation of active lifting within storms has remained elusive. Over 5-11 January 2022 (L 153°-156°), a dust storm passed over the Perseverance rover site.