Three-dimensional structure of thermal waves in Venus’ mesosphere from ground-based observations

High spectral resolution observations of Venus were obtained with the TEXES instrument at NASA's Infrared Telescope Facility. These focus on a CO$_2$ absorption feature 791.4 cm$^{-1}$ as shape this can be used to retrieve vertical temperature profile in Venus' mesosphere. By scan-mapping planet, we are able build up three-dimensional maps atmosphere, covering one Earth-facing hemisphere and an altitude range 60--83 km. A map from February 12, 2019 clearly shows structure planetary-scale thermal wave. This wave pattern appears strongest mid-latitudes Venus, has zonal wavenumber 2--4 fronts tilt eastward angle 8--15 degrees per is consistent tide propagating upwards upper cloud decks. Ground-based provide opportunity study ongoing basis.