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Mars Global Surveyor: Aerobraking and Observations Support Using a Mars Global Circulation ModelThis is a Final Report for a Joint Research Interchange (JRI) between NASA Ames Research Center and San Jose State University, Department of Meteorology. Using a global atmospheric circulation model for Mars, the focus of this JRI has been to provide support for the Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) spacecraft aerobraking activities and interpretation guidance of preliminary observations. The primary atmospheric model applied in this investigation has been a high-top version of the NASA Ames Mars general circulation model (MGCM). Comparisons with an atmospheric model designed primarily for engineering purposes (Mars-GRAM) has also been carried out. From a suite of MGCM simulations, we have assessed plausible spatial and temporal variability in atmospheric density at high altitudes (e.g., 70-1 10 km) for seasonal dates and locations during Phase 1 aerobraking. Diagnostic tools have been developed to analyze circulation fields from the MGCM simulations, and these tools have been applied in the creation of a Mars climate catalogue database. Throughout Phase I aerobraking activities, analysis products have been provided to the MGS aerobraking atmospheric advisory group (AAG). Analyses of circulation variability at the coupling level between the MGCM and a Mars thermospheric global circulation model (MTGCM) has also been assessed. Finally, using a quasi-geostrophic dynamical formulation with the MGCM simulations, diagnosis of breaking planetary (Rossby) waves in Mars middle atmosphere has been carried out. Titles of papers presented at scientific workshops and seminars, and a publication in the scientific literature are provided.
Document ID
19980237414
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Contractor or Grantee Report
Authors
Hollingsworth, Jeffery L. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Bridger, Alison F. C. (San Jose State Univ. CA United States)
Haberle, Robert M. (NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1997
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NCC2-5148
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.

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