Dubbed the “energy crisis” on Jupiter, scientists have puzzled over this question for decades. Now, they might have a solid answer.
A study published August 4 in the journal Nature shows the gas giant likely gets its heat from its polar aurorae.
They’re caused by similar forces as the ones that create Earth’s northern lights.
On Jupiter, auroras are supercharged by particles flying off of the planet’s explosive moon, Io. The moon has hundreds of volcanoes that erupt every day.
The bright white aurorae are the hottest spots on Jupiter, and the deep red zones in the middle of the planet are the coolest.
Researchers previously proposed that the auroras might be responsible for atmospheric heat, though it wasn’t until now that analysis of several years' worth of data could prove it.
Previous models also showed that Jupiter’s Great Red Spot, a massive, swirling storm on the lower half of the planet, might be responsible for a great deal of heat in its atmosphere.
Erik Simonsen/Photodisc/Getty Images
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