Cosmic Weather Wonders: Jupiter's Great Red Spot & Diamond Rain on Neptune

Listen to "Cosmic Weather Wonders: Jupiter's Great Red Spot & Diamond Rain on Neptune" and get ready to explore some wild weather far from home! This mission will help you understand how storms can be so different across our solar system.

The Big Question

How can we show what a giant, long-lasting storm looks like?

What You'll Need

• A large clear bowl or container
• Water
• Dish soap
• Red food coloring (optional)
• A small amount of glitter or small beads (optional)
• A spoon or straw

Mission Steps

1. Fill the Bowl. Pour water into your clear bowl, filling it about halfway.
2. Add a Swirl. Add a drop or two of dish soap to the water. If you have red food coloring, add a few drops now.
3. Spin the Storm. Gently stir the water with a spoon or straw to create a slow, circular motion. Try not to make too many bubbles!
4. Observe the Vortex. Watch how the water spins. If you added food coloring, you might see a red swirl form, similar to Jupiter's Great Red Spot. Add a tiny pinch of glitter or beads to represent the swirling clouds or potential 'rain' in the storm.

Talk About It

• What did you notice about how the water moved in the bowl?
• How is the "storm" you made similar to, or different from, storms on Earth?
• Why do you think Jupiter's storm is called the "Great Red Spot"?

Take It Further

For older rangers, research the different gases that make up Jupiter's atmosphere and how they might contribute to the Great Red Spot's color and storm formation. Compare this to the atmospheric conditions on Neptune that might create diamond rain.

FAQ

Q: My water just made bubbles, not a swirl. A: Try stirring more slowly and in a continuous circular motion. You're aiming for a gentle, steady spin rather than a vigorous mix.

Q: Can I make the storm bigger? A: You can use a larger container for your "planet" and more water, but the principle of creating the swirling motion will be the same.