Astronomy/Martian atmosphere

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Expert: - 12/31/2007


Question
I understand Mars has winds at the surface approximately 400 km/hr. It also has a surface pressure about 1% that of Earth. If we were standing on the surface of Mars in this 400 km/hr wind, what would it feel like? Would it feel like a barely detectable breeze, or would it blow the skin off your body?

Answer
Hi Gary,
You would barely feel it as a gentle breeze, just before you die, as the liquid water in your body converts to a gas (water vapor) due to lack of a pressure suit.
(Full pressure suits are required on Mars just like on
the moon, otherwise you are instantly dead in a near vacuum.)  So, it's really a hypothetical question that can never be tested by a sane person, but only one intent on suicide.
Clear skies,
Tom Whiting
Erie, PA

Astronomy

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Tom Whiting

Expertise

Astronomy has been my hobby/pasttime for over 50 years.  Currently own 3 telescopes, the largest of which is a 30 inch Newtonian truss Dob that is portable.I taught Astronomy/Meteorology at the University Level for 13 years before retiring in 1995. Being retired and home most of the time, I am able to answer all questions relatively quickly, unless it's a new moon weekend with good observing conditions.  No astrology questions please, or questions about alleged UFO picture identifications.

Experience

Experience: Astronomy has been my hobby and study for over 50 years. We currently now own a 30 inch portable telescope (Updated - Pennsylvania`s largest portable telescope). It can be seen on our website at:http://www.velocity.net/~bwhiting and also attend several regional starparties during the year, and have been on 5 total solar eclipse expeditions.

Organizations: President, Erie County Mobile Observers Group for over 15 years.

Publications: Wrote the "Over Erie Skies" newspaper article in our local newspaper for 11 years (1975-86).

Education: Masters Degree- Taught at the University level for 13 years. Retired 20 years -USAF Pilot - KC-135 with 180 combat missions;  Also Eagle Scout, Philmont staff 2 Yrs, Order of Arrow Lodge Chief, Ham Radio (inactive).

Awards: two discoveries: The mini-coathanger asterism in Ursa Minor (the little dipper) And the mini-ladle- another asterism in the bowl of Ursa Minor. Clients: Currently President of the ECMOG as mentioned above.

Education/Credentials
BS  Metallurgical Engineering Grove City College, PAMaster's Degree, Gannon University, Erie, PA Also retired USAF pilot, 20 years.

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