Physics
Scientific paper
Jul 2006
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2006georl..3313101h&link_type=abstract
Geophysical Research Letters, Volume 33, Issue 13, CiteID L13101
Physics
16
Planetary Sciences: Solar System Objects: Mars, Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Magnetospheres (2756), Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Interactions With Particles And Fields, Planetary Sciences: Solid Surface Planets: Magnetic Fields And Magnetism, Magnetospheric Physics: Solar Wind Interactions With Unmagnetized Bodies
Scientific paper
We present observations of 1116 current sheet crossings in the Martian magnetotail during one Martian year, as identified from magnetic field rotations measured by Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) at ~400 km altitude and 2 am local time. Crossings are observed everywhere except above strong crustal fields, and many occur in clusters, with preferred locations varying as a function of season and IMF draping direction. Magnetic polarities are consistent with day-side IMF draping directions and a two-lobe induced magnetotail. Energetic ``plasma sheet'' electrons are often absent, implying that currents can be carried by ions or low-energy electrons, with thicknesses of <~100 km arguing for electrons. The presence of a thin current sheet at low altitudes, with specific seasons and IMF directions favored for some geographic locations, implies that reconnection between crustal fields and the draped IMF may play an important role in its formation and location.
Brain David Andrew
Fillingim Matthew O.
Halekas Jasper S.
Lillis Robert J.
Lin Robert P.
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