The Great Red Spot (GRS) on Jupiter is a persistent high-pressure storm that has been observed for over 300 years, with its discovery attributed to Cassini or Robert Hooke in the 17th century. Measuring approximately 12,000 by 25,000 km, the GRS is large enough to contain two Earths. Infrared observations reveal that the cloud tops of the GRS are significantly colder and higher than surrounding areas. Unlike hurricanes on Earth, which dissipate upon landfall, the GRS continues to exist due to Jupiter's lack of landmasses.
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The Great Red Spot (GRS) has been seen by Earthly observers for more than 300 years (its discovery is usually attributed to Cassini, or Robert Hooke in the 17th century). The GRS is an oval about 12,000 by 25,000 km, big enough to hold two Earths. Other smaller but similar spots have been known for decades. Infrared observations and the direction of its rotation indicate that the GRS is a high-pressure region whose cloud tops are significantly higher and colder than the surrounding regions. Similar structures have been seen on Saturn and Neptune. It is not known how such structures can persist for so long.