Reconnection at the dayside magnetopause: Comparisons of global MHD simulation results with Cluster and Double Star observations

摘要: [1] This study uses two conjunctions between Cluster and Double Star TC-1 spacecraft together with global magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations to investigate the large-scale configuration of magnetic reconnection at dayside magnetopause. Both events involve southward interplanetary fields significant By components. The first event occurred on 8 May 2004, while both were exploring dawn flank magnetosphere; was skimming magnetopause whereas higher latitudes. Results from a MHD simulation show formation an equatorial merging line in morning sector suggest that three-dimensional geometry region is mostly radial juxtaposition planes displaying X-type geometries. second conjunction 6 April 2004. During this event, located high latitudes close noon-midnight meridian, dawnside low Analysis reveals antiparallel component simultaneously. Three-dimensional rendering parallel electric field indicates initiated subsolar Simulation runs carried out using different parameters model spread depends local resistivity. subsolar-merging grows increasing resistivity values becomes patchy when threshold used. However, appears remain spatially constrained where stronger occur no clear connection antiparallel-merging regions found for range surveyed.