York University
Investigating Variability in Aerosols, Ultraviolet Radiation and Methane at Gale Crater — Observations of cloud shapes and motions can constrain different processes that contribute to the weather on Mars, many of which also operate on the Earth. Observing the motions and variations in the quantity of dust in the atmosphere with height and location within Gale can provide a better understanding atmospheric mixing close to the surface driven by solar heating. These particles affect the amount of ultraviolet radiation within the crater, therefore, studying UV at Gale provides more detail on the seasonal cycle and the nature of Martian dust and cloud at the scale of individual particles. Lastly, this improved understanding of weather may help explain observed variations in the amount of methane and whether the source of that methane is small and local, or is carried into the crater from a larger, distant source.