Radial Evolution of the Solar Wind Flow with Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter
Abstract:
Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter are providing unprecedented joint measurements of the radial evolution of the solar wind from below the Alfven point out to 1 au allowing new empirical constraints on its flow properties. We will show results from three recent and ongoing studies on this evolution: (1) We study the acceleration and heating of a stream from Parker to Solar Orbiter and find that “magnetic switchbacks” are necessary (and sufficient) to close the energy budget. (2) We examine the solar wind azimuthal flow measured over radial distances covered by Parker through the end of 2023 and assess the current prospects for measuring a signature of coronal corotation. Lastly (3), we explore how the measured radial evolution and Parker orbit can be used to infer large scale variation in the shape of the alfven critical surface, how it relates to coronal structure and how it has evolved over the solar cycle. We close with a brief look forward to the changing orbits in the remaining nominal missions and how they will further enable such studies.
Leave a Comment
Posted: 8th May 2024 by Sophie Murray
2024-05-14 Samuel Badman (CFA)
Radial Evolution of the Solar Wind Flow with Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter
Abstract:
Parker Solar Probe and Solar Orbiter are providing unprecedented joint measurements of the radial evolution of the solar wind from below the Alfven point out to 1 au allowing new empirical constraints on its flow properties. We will show results from three recent and ongoing studies on this evolution: (1) We study the acceleration and heating of a stream from Parker to Solar Orbiter and find that “magnetic switchbacks” are necessary (and sufficient) to close the energy budget. (2) We examine the solar wind azimuthal flow measured over radial distances covered by Parker through the end of 2023 and assess the current prospects for measuring a signature of coronal corotation. Lastly (3), we explore how the measured radial evolution and Parker orbit can be used to infer large scale variation in the shape of the alfven critical surface, how it relates to coronal structure and how it has evolved over the solar cycle. We close with a brief look forward to the changing orbits in the remaining nominal missions and how they will further enable such studies.
Category: Seminars
Recent Posts
International physics conference, hosted by DIAS, seeks to address gender equality
DIAS Astrophotography competition goes mobile for 2024
Irish scientists are part of groundbreaking discovery with James Webb Space Telescope
Dr Pauline Gagnon (formerly of CERN) to deliver two talks at DIAS
DIAS Professor announced as next President of the European Southern Observatory’s Council
Language switcher