Abstract
AbstractWe develop a new empirical model of Jupiter's equatorial current sheet or magnetodisk, constructed by combining successful elements from several previous models. The new model employs a disk‐like current of constant north‐south thickness in which the current density is piecewise dependent on the distance ρ from Jupiter's dipole axis, proportional to ρ−1 at distances between ∼7 and ∼30 RJ and again at distances between ∼50 and ∼95 RJ, and to be continuous in value but proportional to ρ−2 at distances between. For this reason we term the model the Piecewise Current Disk model. The model also takes into account the curvature of the magnetodisk with distance and azimuth due to finite radial propagation speed and solar wind effects. It is taken to be applicable in the radial distance range between ∼5 and ∼60 RJ. Optimized parameters have been determined for Juno magnetic field data obtained on Perijove‐01, with the model showing overall the lowest root‐mean‐square deviation from the data compared with similarly optimized earlier models.
Highlights
We develop a new empirical model of Jupiter's equatorial current sheet or magnetodisk, constructed by combining successful elements from several previous models
The principal dynamics of the Jovian magnetosphere are governed by the strong planetary magnetic field, the fast rotation of the planet, and the presence of a large internal source of the plasma from the moon Io
In this paper we present a new model of Jupiter's current disk, applicable at radial distances between ∼5 and ∼60 RJ, which incorporates appropriate elements from these previous models, namely, a current density with piecewise variable radial dependency based on the models of Connerney et al (1981) and Alexeev and Belenkaya (2005), as well as current sheet curvature effects as modeled by Khurana (1997)
Summary
The principal dynamics of the Jovian magnetosphere are governed by the strong planetary magnetic field, the fast rotation of the planet, and the presence of a large internal source of the plasma from the moon Io These features create azimuthal and radial currents in the equatorial plasma that result in the field lines becoming greatly distended away from the planet, forming a current sheet or magnetodisk configuration that is responsible for the Jovian magnetosphere's enormous size (Bagenal, 2007; Goertz & Ip, 1984; Hill, 1979; Vasyliunas, 1983). A different model of the Jovian magnetosphere that is global in scope was developed by Alexeev and Belenkaya (2005), which includes the planetary field, shielding currents on a model magnetopause, a magnetotail system, and partially penetrating interplanetary field This model includes a sheet current disk in the magnetic equatorial plane, with an azimuthal current intensity that varies as the inverse square of the distance from the planet.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
