A simulation finds solutions to a central mystery in space physics
Helsinki, Finland (SPX) Jun 30, 2023
How are plasma eruptions in near-Earth space formed? Vlasiator, a model designed at the University of Helsinki for simulating near-Earth space, demonstrated that the two central theories on the occurrence of eruptions are simultaneously valid: eruptions are explained by both magnetic reconnection and kinetic instabilities. Rapid plasma eruptions known as plasmoids take place on the nightsi