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arXiv · 0802.0107

Hybrid simulations of mini-magnetospheres in the laboratory

L. Gargaté·R. Bingham·R. A. Fonseca·R. Bamford·A. Thornton·K. Gibson·J. Bradford·L. O. Silva
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Abstract

Solar energetic ions are a known hazard to both spacecraft electronics and to manned space flights in interplanetary space missions that extend over a long period of time. A dipole-like magnetic field and a plasma source, forming a mini magnetosphere, are being tested in the laboratory as means of protection against such hazards. We investigate, via particle-in-cell hybrid simulations, using kinetic ions and fluid electrons, the characteristics of the mini magnetospheres. Our results, for parameters identical to the experimental conditions, reveal the formation of a mini-magnetosphere, whose features are scanned with respect to the plasma density, the plasma flow velocity, and the intensity of the dipole field. Comparisons with a simplified theoretical model reveal a good qualitative agreement and excellent quantitative agreement for higher plasma dynamic pressures and lower B-fields.

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L. Gargaté, R. Bingham, R. A. Fonseca, R. Bamford, A. Thornton, K. Gibson, J. Bradford, L. O. Silva. 2008-02-01. Hybrid simulations of mini-magnetospheres in the laboratory. https://doi.org/10.1088/0741-3335%2F50%2F7%2F074017

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