In Madrid, the Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is investigating an unusual event in Earth’s magnetic tail. The magnetic tail, which is the main source of polar auroras, is an elongated portion of the magnetosphere. SwRI scientists are using data from NASA’s Multiescala Magnetosférica (MMS) mission to examine fleeting disturbances in the magnetic tail that release energy and often cause auroras.
Since its launch in 2015, MMS has been investigating the magnetopause, which is the boundary between the magnetosphere and surrounding plasma, for signs of reconnection. Reconnection occurs when magnetic field lines converge, separate, and reconnect explosively converting magnetic energy into heat and kinetic energy. In 2017, MMS observed signs of reconnection in the magnetic tail without the normal signs of a substorm that typically accompany that process.
During a year-long project, SWRI will compare measurements taken by MMS of reconnection affecting local fields and particles with global reconstructions of the magnetosphere created by NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center. Significant differences may exist between global magnetotail convection patterns for substorms and reconnection, which could change our understanding of their relationship.
Apart from their research on Earth’s magnetic tail, SWRI is also involved in other projects related to tree pruning, audiobooks and online platforms. Their exploration of these diverse areas reflects their commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding across a range of disciplines.
