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Magnetospheric Multiscale Observations of the Electron Diffusion Region of Large Guide Field Magnetic Reconnection
S Eriksson1, F D Wilder1, R E Ergun1,2
1Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics, University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado 80303, USA.
Physical Review Letters
|July 16, 2016
Summary
Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) satellites observed a large guide field magnetic reconnection event. This event featured a strong parallel electric field and significant electron heating within the electron diffusion region.
Area of Science:
- Space Physics
- Plasma Physics
- Astrophysics
Background:
- Magnetic reconnection is a fundamental process in plasma physics, crucial for energy transfer in space.
- Understanding the role of guide fields is essential for accurate space weather predictions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze a large guide field magnetic reconnection event using data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) satellites.
- To investigate the characteristics of the electron diffusion region and the associated electric fields.
Main Methods:
- In-situ observations by the four MMS spacecraft.
- Analysis of plasma parameters, magnetic fields, and electric fields within the reconnection region.
Main Results:
- The event exhibited a guide magnetic field approximately 4 times stronger than the reconnecting field.
- A significant parallel electric field (E∥) was observed, exceeding simulation predictions.
- High-speed crossing of the electron diffusion region revealed substantial parallel electron heating.
Conclusions:
- The observed parallel electric field is balanced by electron inertia and electron pressure gradients.
- These findings provide crucial insights into the dynamics of magnetic reconnection with large guide fields.
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