On Saturn's six-sided polar jet stream
Adrian Constantin
Abstract
We derive the nonlinear governing equations for stratified circumpolar atmospheric jet flow in Saturn's upper troposphere. An exact solution is obtained in the material (Lagrangian) framework, by specifying its hypotrochoidal particle paths. The resulting flow pattern presents a striking resemblance to the hexagonal jet stream structure observed near Saturn's North Pole.
Topics & Concepts
SaturnJet (fluid)Jet streamPhysicsPolarTroposphereCircumpolar starFlow (mathematics)Jet propulsionLagrangianGeologyEnvironmental scienceMechanicsAtmospheric sciencesAstrophysicsAstronomyPlanetThermodynamicsMathematical physicsAstro and Planetary ScienceSolar and Space Plasma DynamicsPlanetary Science and Exploration