Jupiter’s Great Red Spot: A Storm for the Ages | Cosmos in a Pod S1E51

Q: What’s larger than Earth, rages with winds at 270 mph, and has been active for over 350 years? A: Jupiter’s Great Red Spot, a colossal storm that continues to captivate scientists and astronomers. Dive into the mysteries of this iconic anticyclone, from its origins to its evolving future.

Welcome to Cosmos in a Pod, the Space & Astronomy Series.

Episode Highlights

1. What is the Great Red Spot?
   • A massive storm located in Jupiter’s southern hemisphere, spanning over 16,000 kilometres (10,000 miles).
   • Winds reaching up to 432 kilometers per hour (270 mph).
2. How Did It Form?
   • Likely fueled by Jupiter’s fast rotation, powerful zonal winds, and internal heat convection.
   • Trapped between opposing jet streams, ensuring its persistence.
3. Why Has It Lasted So Long?
   • Jupiter’s lack of a solid surface minimizes friction.
   • Continuous energy supply from the planet’s internal heat.
   • Stable atmospheric conditions and a high-pressure core.
4. What Have Observations Revealed?
   • Shrinking over the last century remains a dominant feature.
   • Varying red hues caused by atmospheric chemical reactions.
   • Extends 300 kilometers (186 miles) into Jupiter’s atmosphere, according to NASA’s Juno mission.
5. What Does It Teach Us?
   • Insights into Jupiter’s atmospheric dynamics and planetary weather systems.
   • Comparisons to Earth’s hurricanes help refine atmospheric models.
6. Unanswered Questions:
   • Why is the storm shrinking?
   • What precisely causes its red colour?
   • How much longer will the Great Red Spot endure?

The Cosmic Perspective: The Great Red Spot is a symbol of Jupiter’s immense power and complexity, challenging our understanding of atmospheric science. Its longevity and scale remind us of the dynamic nature of the cosmos and the intricate systems that govern planets across the universe.

Don’t miss our next episode, where we unravel more cosmic wonders. Be sure to follow and subscribe to Cosmos in a Pod and check out our YouTube channel for more fascinating explorations. Until next time, keep looking up—the universe is waiting to be discovered!