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Pioneer Venus image of Venusian clouds
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Pioneer Venus image of Venusian clouds
Clouds over Venus. False-colour image made at ultraviolet wavelengths of the upper cloud layers over Venus, from data gathered by the Pioneer Venus Orbiter. The general structure of these clouds has remained the same over many years. There are two dense bands of cloud near each pole, and the cloud banks at lower latitudes form bow- shaped waves. These high clouds are mainly sulphuric acid droplets. At the top of the clouds (about 80km altitude), wind speeds may reach 360 km/h. This is thought to be a result of momentum transfer from the very dense lower atmosphere under the influence of strong Hadley cell circulation
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Media ID 6425369
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Cloud Clouds Cosmology Planetary Venus
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This print showcases the mesmerizing beauty of Venusian clouds, captured by the Pioneer Venus Orbiter. The false-color image, taken at ultraviolet wavelengths, unveils the upper cloud layers enveloping the planet's atmosphere. Over many years, the general structure of these clouds has remained remarkably consistent. The photograph reveals two dense bands of clouds near each pole, while lower latitudes exhibit cloud banks forming elegant bow-shaped waves. Composed mainly of sulphuric acid droplets, these high-altitude clouds create a stunning visual spectacle against Venus' backdrop. At an altitude of approximately 80 kilometers, wind speeds in this region can reach an astonishing 360 km/h. This phenomenon is believed to be a consequence of momentum transfer from the incredibly dense lower atmosphere under the influence of strong Hadley cell circulation. As we gaze upon this extraordinary image, it serves as a reminder that our neighboring planets hold countless wonders waiting to be explored and understood. Through scientific exploration and pioneering missions like Pioneer Venus Orbiter, we continue to unravel the mysteries shrouding celestial bodies within our vast cosmos. This awe-inspiring print from Science Photo Library invites us to appreciate both the artistry and scientific significance behind capturing such ethereal cloud features on distant planets like Venus – a testament to humanity's insatiable curiosity about our place in the universe.
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