Incorporation of a Magnetotail into the Model of the Global Saturnian Magnetosphere
Abstract
An extension to the current Saturnian magnetosphere model can be developed by adding a realistic magnetotail, which thus far the previous models have lacked. The magnetotail structure provides a mechanism for the rejoining of deflected solar wind particles after they have traveled past the planet, following deflection from their original paths as a result of interaction with the magnetospheric field. These particles generate a dawn-to-duskward cross-current as they re-merge to eventually form a neutral plasma streaming outwards. The cross-tail current sheet and its associated return currents generates a magnetotail magnetic field, which provides an additional contribution to the Saturnian magnetospheric field. The incorporation of a magnetotail into Saturn's magnetosphere is predicted to enhance the range wherein the model is applicable on the night side of the planet. This paper incorporates a magnetotail into the currently accepted global Saturnian magnetospheric model and compares the results with Voyager spacecraft data for verification. This new model will be helpful for the Cassini mission when it arrives in 2004 since the satellite will be spending a large fraction of its time at high Saturnian latitudes as Cassini executes its polar orbits.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 04, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA376367
Entities
People
- Jeremy J. Bruch
Organizations
- United States Naval Academy