University of Michigan researchers say direct evidence of lightning has been detected on Mars for the first time ever
Researchers believe that electric activity in the Martian atmosphere, even from dust storms, carries with it important scientific implications for the red planet.
As one may imagine, these events will have an effect on atmospheric chemistry, and also for future manned exploration of the planet.
An innovative microwave detector developed at the U-M Space Physics Research Laboratory, was responsible for the discovery. Capable of differentiating between thermal and non-thermal radiation, the Kurtosis detector took microwave emission measurements from Mars for approximately five hours a day, over a 12 day period. The measurements were taken between May 22 and June 16, 2006.
The findings are based on an unusual pattern where non-thermal radiation, combined with an intense Martian dust storm occurred. It was during this time only that non-thermal radiation was detected. From a scientific point of view, non-thermal radiation would suggest the presence of lightning, and this new evidence is also in line with findings regarding soil measurements from the Viking landers, 30 years ago.
Mars is the fourth planet from the sun in our solar system, and is often referred to as the 'red planet', because of its reddish appearance caused by iron oxide on Mars's surface.
As far as exploration goes, the Mars surface is also home to two Mars Exploration Rovers namely 'Spirit' and 'Opportunity', as well a three functional orbiting spacecraft - these are: Mars Odyssey, Mars Express, and the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter.
Mars is about half the size of earth, and in addition, Mars also has two moons, Phobos and Deimos, which are small and odd shaped. Exploration and research of Mars is ongoing.
