Atmosphere of Mars: investigation about atmospheric mass loss by photoevaporation and the interaction with the solar wind

• Grant number: 23/12082-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2023
• End date: September 30, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Physical Sciences and Mathematics - Astronomy - Solar System Astronomy
• Principal Investigator: Adriana Benetti Marques Valio
• Grantee: Julia de Oliveira Arpiani
• Host Institution: Escola de Engenharia (EE). Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie (UPM). Instituto Presbiteriano Mackenzie. São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 18/04055-8 - High precision spectroscopy: from the first stars to planets, AP.TEM

Abstract

The aim of this study is to quantitatively estimate the atmospheric mass loss of planet Mars. It is based on the hypothesis of star-planet interactions, which lead to the dissipation of atmospheric gases from the planet due to processes such as photoevaporation, solar wind, and flares caused by solar activity. Equations describing these phenomena will be employed and applied to planet Mars, particularly considering its more intense interactions with a younger and more active Sun. Furthermore, the values obtained through these calculations will be utilized to elucidate the climate changes that have occurred on Mars. Initially, the planet exhibited characteristics akin to those of a young Earth-like planet. However, over time, it has transformed into a hostile and uninhabitable environment for known forms of life.