Research

Earth, Atmosphere & Environment Sciences

Title :

Modelling of Dust Devil or storm, Variability and Possible Existence of Lightning on Mars

Area of research :

Earth, Atmosphere & Environment Sciences

Focus area :

Interplanetary Dust science

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Jayesh P. Pabari, Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2027

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

Dust is a major constituent in planetary systems, and on Mars, dust devils or storms occur during the summer of the southern hemisphere. However, the electrodynamics model and long-term variability of these storms are not fully understood. This raises scientific questions about the cause, dependence on the solar cycle, and the detection of lightning due to these storms. Investigating dust devils or storms on Mars is essential for understanding the planetary atmosphere and addressing research gaps in existing literature. This project aims to develop comprehensive models and analyze observations, which can help interpret data from future missions to Mars.

Total Budget (INR):

24,25,430

Organizations involved