Reference simulation and Sensitivity tests on CO2 ice cloud formation, and convection, in the Martian troposphere during polar nights with a LES model

We performed the first LES simulations using a complete CO2 microphysics scheme to study the formation of CO2 ice clouds in the Martian troposphere during polar nights. We add a temperature perturbation that could be caused by gravity waves propagation to determine if it could be enough to trigger the formation of such clouds. These clouds have a convective potential that allow them to move upward, so we evaluate typical timescale and magnitude of such movement, as well as the precipitation that occur at the same time. Finally, we study the sensitivity of the convection to atmospheric parameters, such as the temperature of the perturbation, the initial dust profile and the initial horizontal wind profile.