Scientists have found a new kind of storm on Saturn
Astronomers have recorded a new type of storm, which they considered intermediate between the two previously known.
Previously, scientists knew about two types of storms - large and small. The first were called the Great White Spot. They occur periodically and exist for several months. Such storms can reach several thousand kilometers in width. The second is much smaller and lasts up to several days.
A new study allowed us to describe a new type of storm. This is an intermediate view between large and small. It was described on the basis of 4 storms that arose and disappeared in 2018. In diameter, these atmospheric formations amounted to 4000-8000 km.
Based on computer simulations, astronomers concluded that each of these quiet storms required about 10 times more energy than a small storm. At the same time, he needed only about one hundredth of the energy needed for the Great White Spot.
According to scientists, a new type of storm is the “failed” Big White Spot. The latter has been observed only 7 times since 1876.
Previously, scientists knew about two types of storms - large and small. The first were called the Great White Spot. They occur periodically and exist for several months. Such storms can reach several thousand kilometers in width. The second is much smaller and lasts up to several days.
A new study allowed us to describe a new type of storm. This is an intermediate view between large and small. It was described on the basis of 4 storms that arose and disappeared in 2018. In diameter, these atmospheric formations amounted to 4000-8000 km.
Based on computer simulations, astronomers concluded that each of these quiet storms required about 10 times more energy than a small storm. At the same time, he needed only about one hundredth of the energy needed for the Great White Spot.
According to scientists, a new type of storm is the “failed” Big White Spot. The latter has been observed only 7 times since 1876.
