Modelling resonant wave dynamics in rotating atmospheres

Some pertinent open questions in atmospheric and planetary dynamics will be introduced as a motivation for the research presented in this talk. Specifically, how are large vortical structures (eg. the Great Red Spot on Jupiter) sustained by planetary waves leading to their long life time? What are the internal dynamics in giant gas planets, in particular how are energy and momentum transported across a wide range of scales?  What are the important internal forcing mechanisms within the planetary envelope that drive the upper layer dynamics? To understand and answer these questions, I will present a multi-scale model of resonant wave dynamics and address how some of the open questions listed above may be investigated from a fundamental stand point. The model is currently applicable in certain specific dynamical regimes of purely rotating turbulence with weak nonlinear interactions. Efforts are in progress to extend the theory to the broader context of stratified rotating flows and develop a theoretical model that encompasses strong nonlinear interactions.