A test of the uniformly rotating source hypothesis for the South Equatorial Belt disturbances on Jupiter

Abstract

We review and test the hypothesis, first proposed in 1953, that the observed dates and longitudes of the outbreaks of the ten catastrophic disturbances in Jupiter's South Equatorial Belt are consistent with a few sources attached to a uniformly rotating surface. We used a computer in an attempt to determine the statistical significance of the compatibility of the observations with two proposed uniform rotation periods. Unfortunately, the sample is not sufficiently large to show that the compatibilities are improbable by chance within expected uncertainties. Nevertheless, further supporting observations and relationships strengthen the case for a uniform period of 9 h55 m42 s.55 ± 0 s.05, to the extent that a close patrol for any future disturbances is justified. The disturbances are also shown to be not consistent with either the radio rotation period or with a nonuniform rotation period marked by the Red Spot. The theoretical implications are discussed.