DAYSIDE MAGNETIC RECONNECTION SIGNATURES IN THEMIS OBSERVATIONS

Abstract

Magnetic reconnection at the dayside magnetopause is a fundamental plasma process that facilitates the transfer of solar wind energy into the Earth’s magnetosphere. This study utilizes data from the Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS) mission to identify and analyze dayside reconnection signatures under varying interplanetary magnetic field (IMF) conditions. By examining magnetic field perturbations, ion flows, and plasma temperatures during magnetopause crossings, we provide statistical insights into reconnection rates and their spatiotemporal variations. Our findings reveal consistent evidence of magnetic shear, enhanced ion jetting, and electron heating during southward IMF, confirming active reconnection. The implications of these observations improve our understanding of solar wind-magnetosphere coupling dynamics crucial for space weather forecasting.