Rapid Response of Martian Magnetotail to Solar Wind Disturbance: Tianwen-1 and MAVEN Joint Observations

Abstract

The Martian magnetotail is largely controlled by the solar wind (SW) and is modulated by variations in the upstream drivers. However, due to the limitations of single-spacecraft observations, the effects of SW variations on the Martian magnetotail have not been fully understood so far. Here, using Tianwen-1 and MAVEN data, we report for the first time the rapid response of Martian magnetotail to the SW disturbance. In our study, Tianwen-1 detected the flapping of Martian magnetotail, while MAVEN monitored disturbances in the upstream SW. The results indicate that a 20% increase (or decrease) in SW dynamic pressure and a 30° (or 50°) rotation of interplanetary magnetic field clock angle could cause the Martian magnetotail to swing rapidly. These two SW disturbances could lead to oscillations of the Martian magnetotail. This study reveals the importance of joint observations for studying the interaction between the SW and Mars.