Great Red Spot

  • New Observations: Jupiter’s atmosphere around the Great Red Spot is surprisingly active and interesting.

  • What it is: The Great Red Spot is a long-lasting anticyclone (high-pressure area) on Jupiter, creating a persistent storm.

  • Location: Southern Hemisphere of Jupiter.

  • Appearance: A giant red spot. The cause of the red color is unknown.

  • Size: Diameter of 15,400 miles, almost twice the size of Earth and one-sixth the diameter of Jupiter.

  • Wind Speed: Winds inside the storm reach speeds of about 270 mph.

  • Lifespan: It has existed for at least 150 years, possibly longer.

  • Why it lasts: Jupiter’s lack of a solid surface allows the storm to persist. A solid surface would dissipate the storm’s energy.

  • Changes: The Great Red Spot changes in shape, size, and color.

  • Largest Storm: It is the largest known storm in the Solar System.