NASA's Parker Solar Probe mission has identified magnetic distortions in solar wind, termed switchbacks, which are sudden reversals of the magnetic field. A recent study published in the journal Astronomy & Astrophysics investigates these phenomena, whose origins remain uncertain.
The study, conducted by researchers from LPP, LPC2E, FSLAC, the University of Dundee, and Durham University, utilized 3D numerical simulations to analyze plasma behavior in the sun's atmosphere. These simulations modeled solar jets, which are common in the sun's lower atmosphere, and their effects on the solar wind.
By manipulating parameters such as pressure, temperature, and magnetic field strength, the team replicated various solar atmospheric conditions. They then compared their simulation data to measurements from the Parker Solar Probe, successfully identifying magnetic field distortions akin to switchbacks.
The findings indicate that solar jets can cause magnetic distortions similar to switchbacks without resulting in complete magnetic field reversals. This suggests that other solar atmospheric phenomena may interact with solar jets to produce switchbacks with total magnetic field reversals. The study advocates for further research to clarify these complex interactions.