The Heliospheric Current Sheet Observed by Parker Solar Probe

The Heliospheric Current Sheet (HCS), separating the two magnetic polarities of the heliosphere, was encountered by Parker Solar Probe (PSP) closer to the Sun than any previous mission. The HCS near the Sun is much more variable and rich in internal structure than previous 1 AU observations revealed. The time and location of each observed HCS crossing by PSP have been compared to predictions based on a Potential Field Source Surface (PFSS) model of the coronal magnetic field. The near Sun HCS is also revealed to be a dynamic structure and its orientation and observed motions will be discussed. Associated magnetic flux ropes, density enhancements, and electron heat flux dropouts indicate that the HCS is still significantly evolving as it is propagating outward.