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[33.11] The Martian Atmosphere in the Region of Hellas basin as Observed by the Planetary Fourier Spectrometer

D. Grassi, C. Fiorenza (IFSI-INAF, Rome, Italy), N.I. Ignatiev, L.V. Zasova (IKI-RSSI, Moscow, Russia), A. Maturilli, V. Formisano (IFSI-INAF, Rome, Italy), PFS Team

The work presents a review of the observations acquired by the Planetary Fourier Spectrometer (PFS) in the region of the Hellas Basin. Taking advantage of the high spectral resolution of PFS, the vertical air temperature profile can be investigated with a previously unexperienced resolution. Extensive comparisons with the expectations of EMCD 4.0 database highlight moderate discrepancies, strongly dependant on season. Namely, the morning observations acquired at Ls = 50 degrees show a series of temperature deficiencies with very similar structures in different observations, highly correlated with the topography profile. The reasons behind these discrepancies are still under investigation. A possible interpretation is represented by an atmospheric wave activity forced by the peculiar topography of the site. Trends of integrated dust loads as a function of the filed of view elevation are also discussed. Values are consistent with the retrieval hypothesis of a dust scale height equal to the gas one, even far from the season of main dust storms. The PFS is included in the payload of Mars Express ESA mission. The authors acknowledge the Italian Space Agency (ASI) for funding.

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Bulletin of the American Astronomical Society, 37 #3
© 2004. The American Astronomical Soceity.