According to the report, a decade of observations by NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope has revealed significant changes in the atmospheres of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. These findings, collected as part of NASA’s Outer Planet Atmospheres Legacy (OPAL) program, were presented at the December meeting of the American Geophysical Union in Washington, DC. The OPL initiative has tracked weather patterns and atmospheric changes, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of these gas giants. System.
Jupiter’s Great Red Spot and atmospheric bands
Jupiter, the largest planet in the Solar System, has revealed transfer features through the OPL program. The report indicates changes in the size and structure of the Great Red Spot, a storm three times the size of Earth, and atmospheric phenomena within its equatorial band. According to NASA data, the planet’s minimal axial tilt of three degrees results in limited seasonal variability, in contrast to the more pronounced seasonal changes caused by Earth’s 23.5-degree tilt.
Saturn’s seasonal events and ring activity
Reportedly, atmospheric conditions influenced by Saturn’s 26.7-degree tilt have been documented throughout its 29-year orbit. OPL’s findings include color variations and changes in cloud depth related to the planet’s seasonal variations. The telescope also captured the elusive dark ring spokes, which are induced by seasonal factors, based on the data. These events, initially identified during NASA’s Voyager missions, now have clear observation timelines due to Hubble’s contribution.
Uranus’ polar glow is increasing
With its extreme axial tilt and 84-year-old orbit, Uranus has displayed gradual but noticeable changes. The Northern Hemisphere’s polar caps have brightened over time, getting closer to the summer solstice expected in 2028, according to research data. Hubble’s continuous monitoring has enabled these long-term observations.
Neptune’s storms and solar cycle link
Neptune, the most distant of the four, has revealed dark storms, one of which was first observed in 2018 and another documented in 2021. Based on OPL analysis, these storms dissipate near the equator. Observations have linked Neptune’s atmospheric conditions to the solar cycle, suggesting interconnected planetary weather influences. Reports indicate that OPAL’s ten-year survey has enriched understanding, with findings shared in more than 60 scientific publications.
