Archer et al. (2024a) reviews the fundamental theory of surface waves in magnetohydrodynamics, specifically as applied to the interface of the solar-terrestrial interaction—the magnetopause. The authors address several outstanding conceptual challenges in understanding the nature of surface waves within the complex environment of the magnetosphere, suggesting approaches to gain deeper physical insights. They also emphasize the importance of global simulations, which have proven more effective in studying surface waves than analytical theory alone.
Rice et al. (2024) summarises recent advancements in the growth mechanism of surface waves driven by velocity shear across boundaries, specifically the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability. The authors highlight how new in-situ observational capabilities and high-performance computer modelling have transformed our understanding of this process. What was once viewed as a large-scale phenomenon is now recognised as an active environment connecting global and kinetic scales through a variety of multi-scale processes.
GAMERA global MHD simulation of Klevin-Helmholtz generated waves and roll-up vortices at the magnetopause under northward interplanetary magnetic field. Credit: Archer et al. (2024a).
Archer et al. (2024b) stresses the need for a holistic perspective on the global, interconnected nature of magnetopause dynamics across different regions of geospace. The perspective article argues that combining various forms of observations, both current and forthcoming, will provide valuable insights into these dynamics and their impacts—insights that would be missed if studied in isolation.
Finally, Walach et al. (2024) discuss an action plan for ground-based instruments in conjunction with the upcoming SMILE mission, which will image the magnetosphere in soft X-rays for the first time. They raise several potential science themes which these joint measurements will be able to significantly advance including: the impacts from regions of space upon the ionospheric cusp; the connections between solar wind, magnetospheric, and auroral processes; and the interhemispheric asymmetries of the magnetosphere-ionosphere system.
Map highlighting the current observational capabilities for remote sensing magnetopause dynamics and their impacts from the ground. Credit: Archer et al. (2024b).
More information and detailed publication list are available on the dedicated ISSI Team Webpage.
