Spence, H. E. — Page 3

NASA NTRS1987

The average configuration of the induced Venus magnetotail

The interaction of the solar-wind flow with Venus is discussed as well as the morphology of magnetic-field-line draping in the Venus magnetotail. Emphasis is placed on the importance of the interplanetary magnetic field X-component in controlling the configuration of field draping in this induced magnetotail. The average magnetic configuration of this magnetotail is studied. A connection is made between the derived consistent plasma flow speed and density and the observational energy/charge range and sensitivity of the Pioneer Venus Orbiter plasma analyzer.

Mccomas, D. J.↗

NASA NTRS1986

The average magnetic field draping and consistent plasma properties of the Venus magnetotail

The detailed average draping pattern of the magnetic field in the deep Venus magnetotail is examined. The variability of the data ordered by spatial location is studied, and the groundwork is laid for developing a coordinate system which measured locations with respect to the tail structures. The reconstruction of the tail in the presence of flapping using a new technique is shown, and the average variations in the field components are examined, including the average field vectors, cross-tail current density distribution, and J x B forces as functions of location across the tail. The average downtail velocity is derived as a function of distance, and a simple model based on the field variations is defined from which the average plasma acceleration is obtained as a function of distance, density, and temperature.

Mccomas, D. J.↗