In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have found that planet Mars rotation is not only accelerating but doing so with subtle but undeniable momentum.This was revealed a in recent study that achieved the most precise measurement to date of Mars rotation speed and successfully detected the planets intriguing “wobble” caused by its molten cores oscillation.The exploration was facilitated through NASAs InSight lander, which gathered the relevant data during its four-year stint on the Martian terrain before its power was depleted in December 2022.The study, published in the Nature journal, studied the data extracted from the landers Rotation and Interior Structure Experiment (RISE). This analysis unveiled a noteworthy discovery – Mars rotation is quickening at an approximate rate of 4 milliarcseconds annually.Scientists unsure why Mars is spinning faster, list theoriesAlthough the accelerations origins are not definitively pinpointed, researchers are exploring several plausible explanations.Among the potential catalysts behind this phenomenon are the accumulation of ice on the planets polar caps and the concept of post-glacial rebound. The latter phenomenon, characterised by the rise of landmasses previously enveloped by ice, can influence the planets mass distribution and consequently propel its acceleration.Analogous to an ice skater manipulating their spinning speed by extending or retracting their arms, Mars shift in motion could similarly be attributed to alterations in its mass distribution.Drawing an interesting parallel, astronomers liken the phenomenon to the familiar change in pitch of an approaching ambulances sound as it gradually fades into the distance. This auditory shift, known as the Doppler effect, can be harnessed by astronomers to gauge the rotational speed of celestial bodies, including planets like Mars.The amalgamation of NASAs pioneering technology, the InSight lander, and the insights derived from the Doppler effect have led to a more nuanced comprehension of Mars rotation dynamics. The Insight lander can be used to beam a radio signal to the lander using the Deep Space Network, which would then be reflected back by the RISE instrument, which consists of a radio transponder and antennae. Scientists would then look for small changes in the frequency caused by the Doppler effect to accurately measure the rotational speed of any planet.
