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Detailed Reference Information
Brain et al. 2003
Brain, D.A., Bagenal, F., Acuña, M.H. and Connerney, J.E.P. (2003). Martian magnetic morphology: Contributions from the solar wind and crust. Journal of Geophysical Research 108: doi: 10.1029/2002JA009482. issn: 0148-0227.

Mars Global Surveyor (MGS) Magnetometer (MAG) data provide constraints on magnetic morphology at Mars, including the relative importance of the solar wind and of crustal magnetic sources. We analyze MAG data to characterize the upstream interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) and confirm trends in the magnetic field expected from the solar wind interaction with a planetary atmosphere, including increases at the shock and magnetic pile-up boundary (MPB), postshock turbulence, and field line draping around the Martian obstacle. Crustal magnetic sources locally modify the solar wind interaction, adding variability to the Martian magnetic environment that depends on planetary rotation. We identify trends in the vector magnetic field with respect to altitude, solar zenith angle, and planetary location. Crustal sources influence the magnetic field to different altitudes above different regions, and the influence of the strongest source extends to 1300--1400 km. The draped IMF partially controls the field topology above crustal sources, and crustal magnetic field lines reconnect to this field in a systematic fashion that depends upon Mars' geography, IMF strength, and IMF orientation.

BACKGROUND DATA FILES

Abstract

Keywords
Planetology, Solar System Objects, Mars, Planetary Sciences, Magnetic fields and magnetism, Planetary Sciences, Interactions with particles and fields, Planetary Sciences, Interiors
Journal
Journal of Geophysical Research
http://www.agu.org/journals/jb/
Publisher
American Geophysical Union
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