How closely-knit is the martian atmosphere system?

The Mars system encompasses interactional processes at the surface and regolith at one boundary and solar inputs at its other boundary where atmospheric particles escape. Thespatial boundaries and regions within need to be investigated simultaneously to better understand the strong coupling that the atmosphere of Mars has within its differentaltitude regions, within its different atmospheric populations, and with external solar inputs. These investigations are most fruitful when examined at temporal timescales that cover short-duration processes such as solar weather events, as well as longer duration processes that track seasonal and solar variations.</div

Coordinated multi-spacecraft observations of the Martian plasma environment

This White Paper discusses the key open science questions regarding the effects of the solar wind interaction at Mars. Understanding the Martian plasma system behavior as a whole (from the surface to space) should be a priority for space research as it holds significant clues to the evolution of Mars’ climate and past/present habitability. Moreover, it plays a critical role for both unmanned and manned exploration.</div