Mars is known to have a very thin atmosphere and almost no magnetosphere.
Some of the observations have revealed the presence of greenhouse gases, such as
CH4, in the Martian atmosphere, and in a very few times although controversially,
on the surface. An example of this controversy can be found in the Curiosity CH4
surface detection [1], but not confirmed by ESA's Mars orbiters [2].
Observations of the Martian atmosphere (and its composition) taken by orbiters,
landers, and rovers are often taken to feed the models that describe exoplanets
atmospheres.
Very few comprehensive studies have been conducted taking into account the
longest time baseline measurements from orbiters, landers, and rovers.
The aim of this MSc thesis is to crossmatch such Martian missions data to
astrophysical observations which, with time, could trigger photochemistry processes
to generate atmospheric CH4, from superficial CO2 and atmospherical H2 with the
addition of UV photons.
More in detail, the student will progressively achieve the following items:
1-compile all Martian orbiters, landers, and rovers data that have measured CO2, H2,
and CH4 during their lifetime mission.
2-figure out which astrophysical processes could significantly generate CH4 from
superficial CO2, atmospherical H2 and UV photons.
3-as 2-, take into account the following astrophysical scenarios:
3.1-evolution of Solar activity (e.g. from young Sun to current one) [3],
3.2-very powerful Solar superflares, such as the Carrington event,
3.3-strong CMEs, especially in Solar maxima ([4] and [5]),
3.4-cometary origin of atmospheric methane. It's controversial, thought ([6] and [7]),
3.5-Gamma Ray Bursts. Although this is a few explored hypothesis, some references
mention this possibility [8].
4-crossmatch astrophysical and Martian mission data sets in time and location,
when possible.
5-study the photochemistry processes involved in every item of 3-.
6-integrate the eventual CH4 production in time within the data set span, and
extrapolate beyond the data set span.