Work

Self‐Regulating Feedback Between Field Line Curvature Scattering, Ring Current Pressure, and Magnetic Configuration

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: We incorporate field line curvature (FLC) scattering into a kinetic ring current model two‐way coupled with a global magnetospheric MHD model to investigate its role in SYM‐H prediction and global magnetospheric dynamics. FLC scattering reduces plasma pressure in regions where the ion gyroradius is comparable to the local FLC radius. This pressure reduction weakens magnetic tension, resulting in a more dipolar magnetic field configuration that, in turn, suppresses further FLC scattering. This self‐regulating feedback loop prevents excessive FLC scattering and mitigates the overestimation of ring current decay often found in models using empirical magnetic fields. We demonstrate that incorporating FLC scattering improves agreement with observed SYM‐H throughout the entire storm period. These findings highlight the importance of self‐consistent coupling between plasma dynamics and magnetic field configuration, offering enhanced predictive capability for space weather modeling.

Source: Geophysical Research Letters

DOI: 10.1029/2025gl118346

Authors: Suk‐Bin Kang, Alex Glocer, Mei‐Ching Fok, Cristian P. Ferradas, Natalia Buzulukova, Gonzalo Cucho‐Padin

Institutions: Goddard Space Flight Center, Catholic University of America, University of Maryland, College Park

Language: English

Topic: Ionosphere and magnetosphere dynamics

Subfield: Astronomy and Astrophysics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,190

Funder: National Science Foundation