Venus, from Pioneer-Venus Orbiter

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Venus, from Pioneer-Venus Orbiter

Photo of Venus, taken by the Pioneer-Venus Orbiter, showing its turbulent, cloudy atmosphere. The clouds move rapidly around the planet from east to west (right to left) at a speed of approximately 100 metres per second (220 miles per hour). Bright cloud areas wrap around both poles. The small mottled features at the equator (upper centre) appear to be convective cells caused by the Suns heating of the atmosphere. The Pioneer- Venus Orbiter was used to study Venus, from its orbit around the planet, for over two years from December 4th, 1978

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Media ID 6425333

© NASA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Cosmology Planetary Venus

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> Science > Space Exploration > Pioneer

> Science > Space Exploration > Planets > Venus

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print of Venus, taken by the Pioneer-Venus Orbiter, offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the enigmatic atmosphere of our neighboring planet. The turbulent and cloudy nature of Venus is vividly portrayed as the clouds race across its surface from east to west at an astonishing speed of 100 meters per second (220 miles per hour). These swift-moving clouds create a dynamic visual spectacle, wrapping around both poles in bright and ethereal patterns. At the equator, we observe intriguing mottled features that resemble convective cells. These peculiar formations are believed to be caused by the Sun's intense heating of Venus' atmosphere. It is fascinating to witness how this celestial body responds to such energy inputs, manifesting in these intricate structures. The Pioneer-Venus Orbiter played a pivotal role in unraveling the mysteries surrounding Venus during its two-year mission starting from December 4th, 1978. From its strategic orbit around this planet, it diligently studied various aspects including its atmospheric dynamics and composition. This remarkable image not only showcases the beauty inherent in planetary exploration but also serves as a testament to humanity's insatiable curiosity about our cosmic surroundings. As we continue our quest for knowledge about distant worlds like Venus, photographs like these remind us of both their allure and scientific significance.

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