Research
My research involves the atmospheric dynamics of gas giant planets. I work on both computational climate modeling as well as analysis of spacecraft imagery.
Jovian Ovals
Of particular interest to me are large Jovian storm systems. While multiple spacecraft have returned high-resolution images of Jovian cyclones and other associated atmospheric phenomena, much of the underlying physics still remains unknown such as deep abyssal winds and H2O content.
I have recently submitted a paper to Icarus detailing my efforts to perform a streamline analysis of Jovian Oval BA. This is a particularly interesting vortex, as it suddenly turned from white to red in early 2006. My analysis indicates little change during this time period in peak wind speeds, but a substantial increase in the oval's vorticity post-reddening. This indicates a correlation between oval dynamics and color.
Uranus Seasonal Modeling
I also have a keen interest in giant planet seasonal change. Uranus has shown considerable changes during its recent 2007 equinox passage when compared with 1986 Voyager solstice imagery, such as increased numbers of discrete cloud features and the development of a polar hood.Strong seasonal forcing is expected on Uranus as the planet has an extreme axial tilt of 97°.
I have utilized the EPIC general circulation model to simulate Uranus during this time period. I have altered the model's default Newtonian cooling scheme with a radiative transfer model to simulate changing solar insolation during various seasons and its effect on the planet's atmospheric circulation. Initial results indicate significant differences in zonal winds during the Uranus' seasonal extremes.
My research had been supported in part by a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF).
Bibliography
Analysis of Jupiter's Oval BA: A Streamlined Approach
Sussman, Michael; Chanover, N. J.; Simon-Miller, A. A.; Vasavada, A.; Beebe, R. F.; 2009, Icarus, submitted.
Insolation-forced Spin-ups Of Uranus' Zonal Winds In EPIC
Sussman, Michael; Dowling, T. E.; Chanover, N. J.; 2008, Division of Planetary Sciences Meeting
EPIC Modeling of Seasonal Thermal Forcing on Uranus
Sussman, Michael; Dowling, T. E.; Chanover, N. J.; 2007, Division of Planetary Sciences Meeting
Jupiter's White Oval Turns Red
Simon-Miller, Amy A.; Chanover, N. J.; Orton, G. S.; Sussman, M.; Tsavaris, Irene G.; Karkoschka, E.; 2006, Icarus, 185, 2, p.558-562.
Dynamical Analysis of the Reddening of Jovian Oval BA
Sussman, Michael; Chanover, N. J.; Simon-Miller, A. A.; Morales-Juberias, R.; 2006, Division of Planetary Sciences Meeting
Non-Research
Some collected webpages, including teaching notes for both ASTR105 and ASTR110, as well as various seminar talks I've given can be found here.
