Long-term evolution of CO, CS and HCN in Jupiter after the impacts of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9

Various trace species were identified for the first time in Jupiter's stratosphere in the aftermath of the collision of comet Shoemaker-Levy 9 in July 1994. In the millimeter and submillimeter ranges strong lines of CO, CS and HCN were measured at the JCMT 15-m and IRAM 30-m telescopes. We report subsequent monitoring observations of the evolution of these lines, conducted at both telescopes from 1995 to 1998. Regular global mapping of the Jovian disk allowed for a detailed study of the spreading of newly created molecular compounds in the planet's stratosphere. Temperatures and abundances have been inferred in the atmospheric region above 0.2 mbar. The results are interpreted using a model of spatial and temporal dispersion specially developed. for our investigations. Implications for stratospheric dynamics are outlined. Origins of C-, O-, N-, and S-bearing compounds are reviewed in the light of our abundance determinations. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.