The intrinsic magnetic field and solar-wind interaction of Mars.
Abstract
Plasma and field measurements on various spacecraft have demonstrated that Mars has an intrinsic dipole magnetic field that is no more than ≡10-4times as strong as that of the Earth. This difference is attributed to the weakness or absence of dynamo activity in the Martian core. An important consequence of the weak intrinsic field is a Venus-like interaction between the solar wind and the atmosphere. It has been found that this interaction leads to losses of Martian atmosphere constituents that are important for the atmosphere's evolution.
- Publication:
-
Mars
- Pub Date:
- 1992
- Bibcode:
- 1992mars.book.1090L
- Keywords:
-
- Dipoles;
- Mars Atmosphere;
- Planetary Magnetic Fields;
- Solar Planetary Interactions;
- Solar Wind;
- Dynamo Theory;
- Interplanetary Flight;
- Interplanetary Space;
- Radio Astronomy;
- Lunar and Planetary Exploration