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New Observations: Jupiter’s atmosphere around the Great Red Spot is surprisingly active and interesting.
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What it is: The Great Red Spot is a long-lasting anticyclone (high-pressure area) on Jupiter, creating a persistent storm.
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Location: Southern Hemisphere of Jupiter.
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Appearance: A giant red spot. The cause of the red color is unknown.
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Size: Diameter of 15,400 miles, almost twice the size of Earth and one-sixth the diameter of Jupiter.
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Wind Speed: Winds inside the storm reach speeds of about 270 mph.
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Lifespan: It has existed for at least 150 years, possibly longer.
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Why it lasts: Jupiter’s lack of a solid surface allows the storm to persist. A solid surface would dissipate the storm’s energy.
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Changes: The Great Red Spot changes in shape, size, and color.
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Largest Storm: It is the largest known storm in the Solar System.
