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Arsia Mons cloud height estimation from topographical comparison

Figure 5: Using another method, the elevation of the cloud was determined by determining where the cloud touched the elevated volcano flank. (MEX VMC Image No 3 was used since it showed better detail in the volcano calderas). From the Google Earth image and topographic data, the cloud was determined to touch the flank at 9 km elevation. This agrees well with the estimate using shadow length.

For comparison, the summit of Arsia Mons (bright pixel just visible in the shown image) is approximately 16 km high, so these clouds are well below the summit.

 

Image credits: ESA/Google/Mike Malaska

 

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Uploaded on July 14, 2009
Taken on July 13, 2009