Impact of Martian Crustal Magnetic Field on the Ion Escape

Abstract

Based on the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) observations, we have analyzed the role of the crustal magnetic field on ion loss driven by the direct interaction of the solar wind with the Mars ionosphere. Crustal magnetic fields significantly attenuate the ion ionospheric motions and raise the flux of returning ions. On the other hand, since the ion densities in the ionosphere with strong crustal field are significantly higher than in the ionosphere with a weak crustal magnetic field, the net escape fluxes from the ionosphere with the crustal sources remain vital. The crustal magnetic field also leads to the expansion of the ionosphere and increase of the area exposed to solar wind. As a result, fluxes from higher altitudes essentially contribute to the flow pattern in Martian tail producing an excess of ion loss rate (∼15%) through the southern part of the tail. Thus, effects of inhibition and enhancement of the escape rate by the crustal magnetic field at Mars operate in competition producing a minor influence on the total ion loss.