Dept. of Geophysics Colloquium: The Dynamics of Jupiter’s Polar Cyclones

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Abstract:

Since 2016, observations from NASA’s Juno spacecraft have revealed a striking arrangement of stable cyclones at Jupiter’s poles: a central polar cyclone surrounded by eight circumpolar cyclones in the north and five in the south, each about 5,000 km wide with wind speeds up to 100 m/s. This research identifies the balance keeping these cyclones in place: a poleward drift tendency balanced by mutual cyclone interactions. It also explains observed cyclone motions: small oscillations with a 1-year period, and a general westward drift differing between the poles, both resulting from distinct atmospheric dynamics. Finally, by linking these motions to the vertical structure of the cyclones, the study constrains their depth and offers a framework for interpreting upcoming spacecraft measurements. Together, these findings advance our understanding of vortex dynamics on Jupiter and other planets.

Event Organizer: Dr. Lior Rubanenko