| This thesis addresses the 2001 Martian global dust storm and its effect on the atmospheric circulation of Mars. The 2001 global dust storm was unique in that it was seen in its entirety by the Mars Global Surveyor satellite. Observational data were collected, and compared with numerical simulations from the NASA Ames Mars General Circulation Model (MGCM) to better examine and understand the storm.; MGCM simulations using dust data as a driving condition showed numerous components of the circulation were modified by the storm, including enhanced slope winds, stationary waves, and the mean meridional circulation. The Hellas region shows consistently high surface wind stresses, and increased stresses are observed in the Claritas region; both regions with large observed lifting centers. Simulations show the presence of a wave-1 stationary wave, an amplified overturning circulation, and a large tidal response to heavy dust loading were all factors in the storm's development. |
