Energy Transport, Conversion and Dissipation in Earth's Magnetotail
Christopher Chaston, Research Physicist
Space Sciences Laboratory
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2023 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2024.
Understanding turbulence in fluids and plasmas is one of the great challenges of physics. In Earth's near-space environment, known as the magnetosphere, turbulent fluctuations in electromagnetic fields and flows transport vast quantities of energy inward toward Earth through a channel of stretched magnetic field known as the magnetotail. This region is characterized by explosive energy releases that drive particle acceleration and scattering to form dazzling auroral displays at the poles and energize plasmas near in the equator to the extent that they dramatically modify Earth's magnetic field. In this project we shall identify and quantify the different forms of energy transport through this region of space with the ultimate aim of mapping their distribution under varying space weather conditions.
Role: The student will implement data-analysis techniques designed to extract the different forms of energy transport from multi-point time-series measurements of electromagnetic fields and particles. These measurements are provided by the Magnetospheric Multi-Scale mission. Statistics will be compiled to map the distribution of the different forms of transport and to identify general characteristics of the turbulent fields and flows through this region of space. The student will gain experience in the implementation of spectral analysis techniques and familiarity with basic space plasma physics.
Qualifications: The student should be familiar with Maxwell's equations. The ability to write computer code is necessary.
Hours: 3-5 hrs
Off-Campus Research Site: Covid Safe/Remote
Related website: https://lasp.colorado.edu/mms/sdc/public/