An image of Opportunity rover on Mars (Image source: NASA)
Scientists finally have proof of something they have suspected for a long time — electrical discharges in dust devils. This discovery was thanks to an instrument on the Perseverance rover. The understanding gained from this discovery could help in the planning of human missions to the Red Planet.
Dust devils are small, spinning whirlwinds that pick up dust and sand as they move across the Martian surface. For long, scientists have held a theory that electrical discharges can be born within these dust devils. Finally, they have been able to confirm their suspicions.
The microphone on the Perseverance rover’s SuperCam instrument captured audio and electromagnetic recordings when a dust devil passed. Scientists confirmed that the “snap” sound in the recordings was from a spark within the dust devil.
They discovered that the dust grains in dust devils rub against each other, thereby generating electrical charges. When the charges become strong enough, they generate a spark. This phenomenon is called the triboelectric effect.
It is expected, though, that the charges from the dust grains would be too small to generate any spark. But Baptiste Chide, a member of the Perseverance team, has explained that the thin Martian atmosphere reduces the amount of charge needed to create a spark.
The implications of this discovery are profound. These electrical discharges can lead to the formation of chlorates and perchlorates. These chemicals destroy organic molecules that make up life. Electrical charges could also help destroy methane quickly. This could be the reason why methane vanishes rapidly on the Red Planet.
Thankfully, there has been no record of the electrical discharges damaging Mars rovers. Nevertheless, this confirmed finding could be important in helping scientists understand the potential risks to current robotic missions and future human missions. This discovery was published in Nature on November 26.
Chibuike Okpara – Tech Writer – 309 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2024
I have always been fascinated by technology and digital devices my entire life and even got addicted to it. I have always marveled at the intricacy of even the simplest digital devices and systems around us. I have been writing and publishing articles online for about 6 years now, just about a year ago, I found myself lost in the marvel of smartphones and laptops we have in our hands every day. I developed a passion for learning about new devices and technologies that come with them and at some point, I asked myself, “Why not get into writing tech articles?” It is useless to say I followed up the idea — it is evident. I am an open-minded individual who derives an infinite amount of joy from researching and discovering new information, I believe there is so much to learn and such a short life to live, so I put my time to good use — learning new things. I am a ‘bookworm’ of the internet and digital devices. When I am not writing, you will find me on my devices still, I do explore and admire the beauty of nature and creatures. I am a fast learner and quickly adapt to changes, always looking forward to new adventures.