Planet/magnetosphere/satellite couplings: Observations from the moon

Abstract

The general characteristics of planetary magnetospheres depend upon a few key parameters, such as the magnetic dipole strength, the planetary rotation rate, and the strength of the internal plasma sources (satellites, rings, ionosphere). The present knowledge of the acceleration and of the large scale circulation of plasma in these magnetospheres is still rather poor. Plasma and energitic particle losses occur largely through precipitation into the atmosphere along magnetic field lines, giving rise to the planetary aurorae. These losses can be initiated by various kinds of magnetospheric processes, and, if clearly understood, could give major insights into the physics of the global magnetospheric system. After a brief comparative review of the planetary magnetospheres, it will be shown how our understanding of their dynamics could benefit from increased instrumental performances in terms of remote sensing in the X rays, UV to IR, and radio wavelength range, and what breakthroughs could be expected from lunar based observations.