Evidence of Sub-proton-scale Magnetic Holes in the Venusian Magnetosheath | CU Experts

Depressions in magnetic field strength, commonly referred to as magnetic; holes, are observed ubiquitously in space plasmas. Sub-proton-scale; magnetic holes with spatial scales smaller than or on the order of; $rho_p$, are likely supported by electron currents; vortices, rotating perpendicular to the ambient magnetic field. While; there are numerous accounts of sub-proton-scale magnetic holes within; the Earth’s magnetosphere, there are no reported observations in other; space plasma environments. We present the first evidence of; sub-proton-scale magnetic holes in the Venusian magnetosheath. During; Parker Solar Probe’s first Venus Gravity Assist, the spacecraft crossed; the planet’s bow shock and subsequently observed the Venusian; magnetosheath. The FIELDS instrument suite onboard the spacecraft; achieved magnetic and electric field measurements of magnetic hole; structures. The electric field associated with magnetic depressions are; consistent with electron current vortices with amplitudes on the order; of 1 $mu$A/m$^2$.

Goodrich KA; Bonnell JW; Curry SM; Livi R; Whittlesey P; Mozer F; Pulupa M; Malaspina DM; Bale SD; Bowen TA

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