What Did Juno Capture During Its Flyby?

During its 61st close flyby of Jupiter on May 12, 2024, NASA’s Juno spacecraft captured a stunning, color-enhanced view of the giant planet’s northern hemisphere. This image showcases the intricate and chaotic cloud patterns, along with cyclonic storms in the region known as the folded filamentary region.

Who Processed the Image and How?

The image was created by citizen scientist Gary Eason, who used raw data from the JunoCam instrument. By applying digital processing techniques, Eason enhanced the color and clarity of the image, revealing the dynamic and turbulent nature of Jupiter’s clouds.

How Close Was Juno to Jupiter During the Flyby?

At the time the raw image was taken, Juno was approximately 18,000 miles (29,000 kilometers) above Jupiter’s cloud tops, positioned at a latitude of about 68 degrees north of the equator. This close proximity allowed for an incredibly detailed view of the planet’s atmosphere.

What Makes Jupiter’s Folded Filamentary Region Unique?

The folded filamentary region is a fascinating area where the zonal jets that typically create Jupiter’s banded patterns break down. This leads to the formation of turbulent patterns and rapidly evolving cloud structures, providing scientists with valuable insights into the planet’s atmospheric dynamics.

How Can You See More Images from Juno?

For more incredible images from Juno, including raw data and processed images, visit the JunoCam website. Explore the latest images and learn more about the Juno mission’s discoveries.

POLL TIME