JOVIAN SYSTEM DATA ANALYSIS PROGRAM PROPOSAL SUMMARY

We propose the following objectives: (1) Define the source of unexpectedly strong absorption of red light deeper than 4 bars, by accounting for possible absorption by ammonia gas at wavelengths between 0.65 and 1.5 microns and confirming observations of optical sensors of the Lightning and Radio Emission detector with laboratory characterizations; (2) Improve estimates of ammonia and water vapor profiles by use of newly revised in situ probe observations together with remote observations from Galileo orbiter and earth-based instruments; and (3) Develop better constraints on Jovian cloud structure by using in situ and remote observations in an attempt to reconcile a significant divergence that now exists in derived cloud properties. The proposed research will enhance the scientific return from the Galileo mission by refined analysis of the in situ Galileo probe observations and by extended interpretation in the light of Orbiter and supporting earth-based observations. The research aims to improve our understanding of atmospheric composition of Jupiter's deep atmosphere and the dynamics of Jupiter's circulation and cloud structure. The composition is an important clue in understanding Jupiter's formation and evolution. This research is part of the NASA Quest to explain formation and evolution of the solar system, relates to the campaigns of Building Blocks and Chemical Origins and Astrophysical Analogs, and has relevance to the Galileo Mission and to the Cassini mission, as well as to possible future orbiter or probe missions to Jupiter or other Giant Planets. This is an extension of work funded by the Galileo Project, which is documented in the following articles: Sromovsky, L.A., A.D. Collard, P.M. Fry, G.S. Orton, M.T. Lemmon, M.G. Tomasko, and R.S. Freedman (1998). Galileo Probe Measurements of Thermal and Solar Radiation Fluxes in the Jovian Atmosphere accepted by J. of Geophys. Res., 1998. Sromovsky, L.A., F.A. Best, A.D. Collard, P.M. Fry, H.E. Revercomb, R.S. Freedman, G.S. Orton, J.L. Hayden, M.G. Tomasko, and M.T. Lemmon Solar and Thermal Radiation in Jupiter's Atmosphere: Initial Results of the Galileo Probe Net Flux Radiometer. Science 272, pp. 851-854, 1996. Sromovsky, L.A. and P.M. Fry. Calibration of the Galileo Net Flux Radiometer. in proceedings of The Fourth Infrared Sensor Calibration Symposium,} held at Utah State Univ., Logan, Utah, 1994. Sromovsky, L.A., F.A. Best, H.E. Revercomb, and J.L. Hayden. Galileo Net Flux Radiometer Experiment. Space Sci. Rev. 60, pp. 233-262, 1992. Our Education/Public Outreach proposal is aimed at developing a web-based educational module for upper middle and high school students, using an enquiry-based approach in which students will invesgtigate, compare, and understand data from the Galileo Probe Net Flux radiometer, with the aid of Java applets. These applets will facilitate the visualization of how gases and aerosols interact with solar and thermal radiation to produce heating and cooling that results in atmospheric motions.