Simulation of shock size asymmetry caused by charge exchange with pickup ions

Abstract

This paper considers the interaction between the solar wind and unmagnetized planets using computer simulations. We used a three-dimensional hybrid code that treats kinetic ions and massless fluid electrons. The results showed that the shock shape and magnetic barrier intensity are asymmetrical in the direction of the electric field. The velocities of pickup ions and electrons differed near locations where charge exchange occurred. This velocity difference caused an electric current and it generated a strong magnetic barrier on the side of the planet to which the electric field was pointing. This magnetic barrier acted as an obstacle to the solar wind, and the shock was inflated on this side. Application of these results to the interaction between the solar wind and the interstellar medium near the heliopause is also discussed.