3D evolution of localized plasma flow and its interaction with ambient field

A major part of the transport of the magnetic flux and energy in the midtail and the near-Earth tail region is accomplished by local fast plasma jets, called bursty bulk flows (BBF) or flow bursts.  The interaction between BBF and ambient field plays an important role in the complex chain of solar wind-magnetosphere-ionosphere coupling processes. Furthermore, near-Earth flow braking/bouncing processes and associated magnetic and pressure disturbances in the transition region of the magnetic field configuration from tail-like to dipolar field  lead to complex localized current sheet restructuring. Associated energetic particle injection further effects the inner magnetosphere bringing in the source population of the plasma waves that cause electron accelerations as well as seed populations of the radiation belts.

 

In this presentation we stress the importance of observations of BBF and dipolarization by covering extensive region, both near the equator and off-equator simultaneously, for understanding the energy transport processes by including both the field-aligned and perpendicular evolution of the flux tube.  By showing several examples of observations with fortuitous multi-spacecraft configuration, 3D nature of the interaction between BBF and ambient plasma will be discussed.