Solar Wind Thermal Anisotropies: Vela 3 and IMP 3
Abstract
Solar wind proton velocity distribution functions derived from Vela 3 satellite observations made during July and August 1965 are usually anisotropic in a frame of reference moving with the bulk velocity of the medium. The orientations of these anisotropic distributions are here compared with the directions of the interplanetary magnetic field measured on the IMP 3 satellite. On August 3, 4, and 5, 1965, under relatively quiet conditions, the direction of maximum proton temperature was aligned with that of the magnetic field lines. The detailed temporal behavior of the anisotropy and field directions followed the same pattern during periods of slow changes and during the passage of a `magnetic filament' past both satellites. The alignment of the anisotropic distributions and the field lines is shown to hold for the 33-day period for which these data have been compared. Some consequences of the possible plasma instabilities implied by this situation are suggested.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Geophysical Research
- Pub Date:
- November 1967
- DOI:
- 10.1029/JZ072i021p05265
- Bibcode:
- 1967JGR....72.5265H