Taking a look at our solar system, there are a few traits shared by numerous planets. One of these is the curious phenomenon of atmospheric superrotation. Planets with a dense atmosphere seem to have a constant prevailing wind in one direction. Exactly why this is the case is still a matter of some debate, but the effect is quite readily apparent. Venus, for instance, is a prime example. The atmosphere on Venus whips around the planet, completing a full rotation once every four Earth days or so. Remarkable, given that the planet’s surface only rotates once every 243 Earth days. A similar thing happens on Saturn’s moon Titan.
But by far the most dramatic example is with the gas giants. Any gas giant has so much atmosphere that it’s practically impossible to tell where exactly the planet’s actual surface may be – if indeed any “surface” may even exist in a form we might recognise. As a result, gas giants boast dramatic winds, which sculpt incredibly beautiful vortices at their North and South poles. Vortices like this one.
Taken by the ever faithful Cassini probe a couple of weeks ago, this is a breathtaking view of the vortex at Saturn’s North pole. Gorgeous, isn’t it?