EarthRef.org Reference Database (ERR)
Development and Maintenance by the EarthRef.org Database Team

Detailed Reference Information
Sanders et al. 1980
Sanders, G.D., Maher, L.J. and Freeman, J.W. (1980). Observation of the plsma boundary layer at lunar distances: Direct injection of plasma into the plasma sheet. Journal of Geophysical Research 85: doi: 10.1029/JA085iA09p04607. issn: 0148-0227.

Simultaneous data returned by the Apollo Suprathermal Ion Detector Experiments are combined to yield information on the properties of plasmas in the magnetosheath at lunar orbit. An interface between the magnetosheat and the plasma sheet has been identified. This layer is characterized by a systematic change in the magnetosheath flow properties in the vicinity of the magnetopause. The flow is observed to turn inward toward the plasma sheet and become thermalized, indicating that the magnetosheath particles can gain access to the plasma sheet at lunar distances. this layer, which we term the plasma sheet boundary layer (PSBL), is believed to be the extension of the magnetospheric boundary layer (also called plasma boundary layer) observed on the dayside. Rough order of magnitude calculation shows that the flux crossing the PSBL is capable of supplying the roughly 5¿1025 particles/s necessary for maintenance of the plasma sheet. Measurements of the thickness of the plasma sheet boundary layer, the magnetic field, and the plasma flow velocity allow an estimate of the potential drop across this layer of 4.2 kV. Since this is much less than the potential drop of opposite polarity across the balance of the tail, we conclude that the magnetosphere is open.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
2000 Florida Avenue N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20009-1277
USA
1-202-462-6900
1-202-328-0566
service@agu.org
Click to clear formClick to return to previous pageClick to submit