Refractive index of Martian atmosphere near surface

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SUMMARY

The refractive index of the near-surface Martian atmosphere, primarily composed of CO2, is a critical topic for researchers. Current estimates suggest a refractive index of approximately 1.000449 at 1 atm, but this value must be adjusted for the Martian surface pressure of ~6 mbar. The discussion highlights the lack of specific data for CO2 at Martian conditions and references the need for a formula to convert standard atmospheric values to Martian conditions. Participants in the forum express a desire for reliable equations or references to accurately determine the refractive index under these unique conditions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gas laws and atmospheric pressure
  • Familiarity with the properties of CO2 and its refractive index
  • Knowledge of the Edlh equation for refractive index calculations
  • Basic grasp of atmospheric science related to Mars
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the Edlh equation and its applicability to CO2 at varying pressures
  • Explore methods for calculating refractive index adjustments for low-pressure environments
  • Investigate the impact of temperature on the refractive index of gases
  • Review scientific literature on Martian atmospheric composition and its optical properties
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, atmospheric scientists, and researchers studying Martian geology or optics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those focused on the refractive properties of gases in extraterrestrial environments.

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Hi folks,
Does anyone have a good reference for the refractive index of the near surface Martian atmosphere?
(Or alternatively, the means to estimate it from readily available data!)

I'm struggling to think of an equation for which I've got enough of the variables to be of use, (for example assuming the atmosphere is CO2, and the pressure is ~6mbar, temperature etc.)

Hope you'll be able to help. Thanks in advance!
 
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Thanks very much for your reply Janus. But am I missing something obvious? The section taken largely from Birch & Downs's "Correction to the Updated Edlh Equation for the Refractive Index of Air" deals specifically with air rather than CO2, and the tables don't give values for CO2 the pressure regime at the Martian surface. :confused:
 
http://www.ps.missouri.edu/rickspage/refract/refraction.html


CO2 n=1.000449 according to this page, but the page explicitly says the numbers are a guideline only and as far as I can tell there are no references. Since I am assuming this n value is at 1atm, you will have to convert the value to reflect the difference pressure at Mars' surface. I am not sure what forumula will help you do this, I am curious about this too, so if you find the formula post it for me.

Cheers.
 
Mars' atmo is 49 parts vacuum to 1 part air :wink:

I would think its refractive index is effectively 1.
 
DaveC426913 said:
Mars' atmo is 49 parts vacuum to 1 part air :wink:

I would think its refractive index is effectively 1.


Dave, is that at the surface of Mars?
 

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