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.