Multi-fluid MHD study of Ion Loss from Titan's Atmosphere

We study the plasma interaction around Titan using our new three dimensional multi-fluid MHD model similar to the one that was used recently to study Mars [Najib et al., 2011]. The multi-fluid MHD model of Titan is solved using the Michigan BATSRUS code. The model calculates densities, velocities, and pressures of seven ion species which are important in either Titan's ionosphere or in the ambient plasma. The code uses a spherical grid structure with high radial resolution ~ 30 km in the lower ionosphere. The model is applied to an idealized case of Titan and the results are compared in detail with that of a single fluid model using the same set of plasma parameters to illustrate the importance of multi-fluid effects near Titan. We present the calculated ion escape rates from both models and discuss the differences.