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Exploring the history of the Great Red Spot: from the first observation in 1665 to the latest discoveries in 2024!
The Great Red Spot is a persistent high-pressure region in Jupiter's atmosphere that forms the largest anticyclonic storm in the solar system. The mystery and splendor of the Great Red Spot have captivated astronomers since it was first observed in 1665. This article will take you into the history of this wonderful celestial body. From the initial observations to recent research discoveries, humankind's understanding of the Great Red Spot is constantly deepening.
The history of early observations
The Great Red Spot may have existed before 1665, but the earliest observation we know of dates back to 1664, when Robert Hooke recorded a special spot on Jupiter.
However, the spot described by Hooke was in a different location from today's Great Red Spot. Most observations of Jupiter at that time were limited by the technology at the time, resulting in a vague understanding of the identity of the Great Red Spot. Giovanni Cassini's description in 1665, considered more credible, defined a "permanent spot". From 1665 to 1713, observation records were intermittent, and there was a 48-year gap in this history. It is still impossible to draw a definite conclusion whether the Great Red Spot today is the same spot at that time.
Continuous observations from 1879 to the present
Since September 5, 1831, observations of the Great Red Spot gradually increased, and by 1879, more than 60 observations had been recorded. After that, the Great Red Spot began to receive more sustained attention and research. Until the beginning of the 21st century, scientists have used various methods to conduct observations, including photography by space explorers.
The latest research and observations
A 2024 study of historical observations shows that the "permanent spot" observed between 1665 and 1713 is likely no longer a continuation of today's Great Red Spot.
Recent research suggests that the original spots may have disappeared long ago, and new spots formed later that are the features we see today. This provides a new perspective on our understanding of Jupiter's storm dynamics and their evolution. The origin of the Great Red Spot's color remains a mystery, with scientists proposing that chemical reactions due to intense ultraviolet radiation may be responsible for its distinctive red color.
Mechanical dynamics of the Great Red Spot
Since 1966, research has shown that the Great Red Spot rotates in a counterclockwise direction and maintains a stable latitude and longitude. There are complex airflow movements inside it, and these flows are an important factor in maintaining the persistence of the Great Red Spot. Many observational data show that the Great Red Spot's main diameter shrinks over time, and it is speculated that it may become round before 2040.
Changes in color and composition
The color change of the Great Red Spot, from brick red to light salmon, is affected by corresponding environmental changes. The Great Red Spot appears particularly dim when the southern equatorial belt appears bright white; the color becomes brighter when exposed to greater contrast. This phenomenon shows the complexity of Jupiter's atmospheric system and its interactions.
Conclusion
After centuries of observation and research, although our understanding of the Great Red Spot has greatly improved, there are still many unsolved mysteries for scientists to explore. With the advancement of observation technology, there will be more in-depth research on this astronomical scene in the future. So, how do you think future science and technology will change our understanding of the Great Red Spot?
