Research Projects

Dust is a major constituent in any planetary system and it is found everywhere. In case of Mars, dust devils/storms occur near the surface mostly in the summer of Southern hemisphere and some of them are global in nature. However, electrodynamics model of dust devil/storm and long term variability and repeatability of dust devils/storms on Mars is not yet understood completely. This leads to many scientific questions like whether the cause of dust devils/storms repeats itself, is there any dependence on solar cycle, whether dust remains in the environment continuously, if the lightning due to devils/storms on Mars should be detectable any time etc. Since, the lightning or electrical discharge on Mars is a discovery awaited and its basic cause of generation is whirlpool motion of dust particles; the investigation of dust devils/storms on Mars is essential by modelling and data analysis. Further, the study of planetary atmosphere under the influence of dust is also necessary. Looking at the existing literature, some research gaps exists in the current understanding. This project provides an opportunity to address them through development of comprehensive models and analysis of available observations, that can emerge as outcomes of this project. Further, it can also help to gainfully interpret the data from future mission to Mars.