Jupiter’s atmospheric composition has been called into question through observations made using an old technique by an amateur astronomer, Steve Hill. The findings have indicated that the planet’s iconic swirling clouds may not be composed of ammonia ice, as previously assumed. This revelation stems from data collected with commercial telescopes and spectral filters, presenting new perspectives on the gas giant’s atmospheric dynamics and chemistry. The observations have sparked further investigation into the structure of Jupiter‘s cloud layers.

Findings from Observational Studies

According to research published in Earth and Space Science, Hill applied a method known as band-depth analysis. This technique measures light absorption at specific wavelengths to map the abundance of gases like ammonia and methane in Jupiter’s atmosphere. As reported by space.com, the data revealed that reflective cloud layers are located at pressure levels of 2-3 bar, far deeper than where ammonia ice was expected to condense at 0.7 bar.

Patrick Irwin, a planetary physicist at the University of Oxford, reviewed Hill’s results and confirmed their accuracy through comparisons with data from instruments such as NASA’s Juno spacecraft and ESO’s Very Large Telescope (VLT). He noted to space.com that the main reflection appears to stem from ammonium hydrosulfide clouds or photochemical products, rather than pure ammonia ice.

Implications and Future Research

Reports indicate that these findings underline the role of photochemistry in shaping Jupiter’s atmosphere, where ammonia is often destroyed faster than it can rise to the upper layers. Similar processes have been observed on Saturn, where cloud layers are also deeper than predicted. Researchers aim to refine models by integrating additional data from the VLT, Juno, and other observatories to better understand ammonia’s vertical distribution.

Hill’s approach demonstrates the potential of collaborative efforts between amateur and professional astronomers. These findings not only challenge existing models but also open new pathways for studying atmospheric dynamics on gas giants.

The launch of Blue Origin’s highly anticipated New Glenn rocket has been delayed due to adverse weather conditions. Initially planned for Friday, January 10, the liftoff was rescheduled to Sunday, January 12, at 1:00 a.m. EST (0600 GMT). This decision was taken because rough seas in the Atlantic Ocean could jeopardise the landing of the rocket’s reusable first stage. The launch will proceed from the Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida, with the same three-hour launch window.

Weather Challenges Force Delay

According to a statement by Blue Origin, as reported by Space.com, the high sea state in the Atlantic presented risks to the landing operation of the rocket booster, which is designed to return to Earth and land on a barge named Jacklyn. Named after Jeff Bezos’ mother, the barge is critical to the company’s plans to achieve reusability. Blue Origin acknowledged the ambitious nature of attempting a first-time booster landing, emphasising their determination to succeed despite the challenges.

Technical Details of New Glenn

Standing at an impressive height of 320 feet (98 meters), the New Glenn rocket marks Blue Origin’s entry into orbital-class missions. It is equipped with a reusable first stage that is intended to endure at least 25 flights, reducing the cost of space missions. This design mirrors the reusable model successfully employed by rival company SpaceX, which regularly recovers its Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy boosters for reuse.

Future Missions and Contracts

Blue Origin has already secured several contracts for its New Glenn rocket. Among them are NASA’s ESCAPADE mission to Mars and the deployment of Amazon’s Kuiper internet satellites. If the launch does not proceed on Sunday, notices from the Federal Aviation Administration indicate that the company may attempt additional launches through January 16.

The mission represents a significant step for Blue Origin in advancing reusable space technology, with the industry closely monitoring the outcome of its maiden voyage.