Mesoscale dynamics of the Martian atmosphere : development of a meteorological model and analysis of OMEGA / Mars Express observations.

In the present thesis, we analyze mesoscale meteorological phenomena revealed by recent missions to Mars. Our work is based on numerical modeling and data analysis : we developed a comprehensive mesoscale model for the Martian atmosphere, with numerous potential applications, and carried out a mapping of the surface pressure using the OMEGA imaging spectrometer onboard the Mars Express orbiter. This study is focused on the intense atmospheric dynamics in the vicinity of Martian volcanoes, canyons and craters. Meteorological phenomena in the Martian plains are also found to be of great amplitude, in contrast to what could be deduced from synoptic analysis. Convection in the Martian boundary layer is also investigated. The Martian regional-scale meteorology turns out to be very energetic.