Limitations of applying grain weight similitude in aeolian studies with NASA Mars Wind Tunnel

• Published in: Aeolian research Vol. 53; p. 100732
• Main Authors: Marshall, J., Fenton, L.K., Harlow, J.J.B.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01-09-2021
• Subjects: Equations of motion; Mars aeolian; Planetary wind tunnels; Saltation trajectories; Weight similitude; Weight similitude; Mars aeolian; Saltation trajectories; Equations of motion; Planetary wind tunnels
• ISSN: 1875-9637; 2212-1684
• DOI: 10.1016/j.aeolia.2021.100732

•Mathematical analysis shows error in Mars wind tunnel experiments.•Algebraic and numerical methods provide error evaluation of a NASA tunnel.•Weight, inertia, and drag provide an adequate account of saltation.
The Mars Surface Wind Tunnel at NASA Ames Research Center is used to simulate windblown (aeolian) movement of sand and dust on the martian surface. Because objects weigh less on Mars, the tunnel employs lighter sand in the form of crushed walnut shell to compensate for Earth’s higher gravity. The tunnel is thus operated on the principle of ‘grain-weight similitude’. This approach enables successful replication of transport thresholds but it leads to major discrepancies for other aspects of grain behavior.