Abstract
Results on spectral observations of Jupiter and Saturn in the range of the methane and ammonia absorption bands are briefly described. Some peculiarities in the latitudinal and longitudinal variations in those absorptions are noted and the latitudinal asymmetry of the absorption distribution on Saturn's disc clearly expressed. The latter is evidently connected with seasonal changes and differences in the insolation regime caused by the very large tilt of Saturn's rotation axis and its rings. The behaviour of the absorption bands may be used as an important characteristics of the atmospheric state and structure in the future planetary monitoring programme.