How magnetic reconnection accelerates particles to nearly the speed of light
In short: Across the universe, magnetic fields connect and disconnect in explosive bursts of energy. NASA’s Magnetospheric Multiscale mission uses four identical spacecraft to turn Earth’s magnetosphere into a laboratory, studying the microphysics of these violent, fundamental plasma processes that shape our solar system.
To examine the microphysics of turbulence, energetic particle acceleration, and magnetic reconnection, the Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission serves as a Solar-Terrestrial Probe. These phenomena occur in key boundary regions of Earth and are fundamental to the universe at large. Magnetic reconnection, specifically, involves magnetic fields connecting and disconnecting, a process that facilitates massive energy transfers affecting the Sun, the Earth, and the wider cosmos. These interactions are essential for understanding how energy moves through the cosmos. Such processes are vital to the study of plasma physics across the universe.
To capture these fleeting events, NASA deployed a fleet of four identically instrumented spacecraft. These satellites orbit the Earth at speeds reaching up to 22,000 miles per hour. By working in concert, they allow scientists to observe how these magnetic shifts release energy and accelerate charged particles to velocities approaching nearly the speed of light.
Following testing and engineering at Goddard Space Flight Center, the mission departed from Florida's Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Space Launch Complex 41, on March 12, 2015. Beyond fundamental physics, the data collected by MMS sensors—which measure electric and magnetic fields alongside charged particle velocities—is vital for improving space weather forecasting and predicting conditions for future missions.
The mission represents an unprecedented effort to resolve the complex mechanics of space plasmas. By using Earth's magnetosphere as a natural laboratory, the MMS fleet provides a unique window into the explosive mechanics that drive much of the activity seen in the solar system.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Magnetic Multiscale mission previewed
- Also: Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) Mission
- Also: Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) | Goddard Engineering and Technology Directorate
- Also: The Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission...Resolving Fundamental Processes in Space Plasmas - NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/space-magnetic-multiscale-mission-previewed.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Space · Latest · A–Z · All topics
