Model Predictions of Magnetosheath Conditions

Abstract

The magnetosheath and its two boundaries-the bow shock and the magnetopause-interface the magnetosphere with the solar wind. This interface specifies the upstream conditions for magnetospheric models. Major progress has been made in the last few years in specifying the magnetosheath conditions. The classical Spreiter magnetosheath model is modified to include more physical processes. The modified model has been tested under various upstream conditions. Magnetohydrodynamic models have been developed. The spatial and temporal resolutions of these models are limited by the computer capability and costs for running. The performance of these models remains to be tested. The modified Spreiter model provides fast and inexpensive specification of the magnetosheath conditions. The direction of the magnetic field in the magnetosheath, which is most important for space weather magnetospheric models, is the best-predicted quantity. This paper summarizes the model approximations, procedures and validations.