MARS GLOBAL REFERENCE ATMOSPHERIC MODEL (Mars-GRAM 2010)

Description:

Mars Global Reference Atmospheric Model (Mars-GRAM) is an engineering-level atmospheric model, widely used for diverse mission applications. Applications include systems design, performance analysis, and operations planning for aerobraking, entry descent and landing, and aerocapture.  From 0-80 km altitude, Mars-GRAM is based on NASA Ames Mars General Circulation Model (MGCM), while above 80 km it is based on Mars Thermospheric General Circulation Model (MTGCM).  Mars-GRAM and MGCM use surface topography from Mars Global Surveyor Mars Orbiting Laser Altimeter (MOLA), with altitudes referenced to the MOLA constant potential surface (areoid).

Additional Information:

Language: FORTRAN 90/95

Operating System: PC/DOS, Unix

Hardware Requirements: Runs on PC (or compatible) and on most Unix hardware

Availability:

• Maintenance/ Upgrades: On an as needed basis
• Source Code: Source code is available
• Cost: Program: No cost to qualified, NASA approved users
• Distribution: Contact Hilary Justh (contact information below) 
• Manuals: Yes
• Training: No

Input Description: Geographic position and time.

Output Format: Density, temperature, pressure, winds, and selected atmospheric constituents.

Verification/ Validation: Mars-GRAM 2005 was validated against Radio Science data, and
both nadir and limb data from the Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES).  Adjustment
factors have been implemented in Mars-GRAM 2010 to produce significant improvement
in match up with TES limb data (0-60 km) and aerobraking data from MGS, Odyssey, and
MRO (90-130 km).  These adjustment factors apply for the "MapYear=0" option (where
user-specified dust optical depth is employed).

Point of Contact:

Hilary L. Justh
EV44/NASA
NASA Marshall Space Flight Center
MSFC, AL  35812
Phone: (256) 544-3694
E-mail: Hilary.L.Justh@nasa.gov

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