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Energetic particles at venus: galileo results
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|September 27, 1991
Summary
Galileo
Area of Science:
- Space Physics
- Planetary Science
- Plasma Physics
Background:
- Galileo spacecraft's Energetic Particles Detector (EPD) studied charged particles at Venus.
- Previous observations of energetic particles near Venus were limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the energy spectra and angular distributions of energetic ions and electrons near Venus.
- To investigate the origin and acceleration mechanisms of these particles.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Energetic Particles Detector (EPD) on the Galileo spacecraft.
- Analyzed differential energy spectra and angular distributions of ions (>22 keV) and electrons (>15 keV).
- Correlated particle observations with Venus's magnetic field and bow shock models.
Main Results:
- Episodic particle events were detected near Venus's closest approach.
- Observed highly anisotropic angular distributions, ordered by the magnetic field.
- Measured power-law energy spectra extending to 280 keV, indicating association with the foreshock-bow shock region.
Conclusions:
- Energetic ions observed are linked to the Venusian foreshock-bow shock region.
- Shock-drift acceleration at the Venusian bow shock is the probable acceleration mechanism.
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