Mariner 9 Ultraviolet Spectrometer Experiment: Morning Terminator Observations of Mars

Abstract

Ozone is observed to be present in the polar regions of Mars and to have a seasonal variation. In the summer, the amount present in the polar atmosphere is less than 3 micrometer-atmospheres. In the fall, ozone increases in amount and is found in association with the formation of the polar hood. In winter, the maximum amount of ozone is present, 57 micrometer-atmospheres over the polar hood and 16 over the polar cap. In spring, the amount over the polar cap decreases monotonically until by the beginning of summer the ozone disappears. Ozone is not observed in the equatorial region during any season.