Multi-Point Observations of Transient Phenomena at the Magnetopause Associated With Solar Wind Dynamic Pressure Impulse Events

Abstract:

We report multi-point conjugate observations of transient phenomena at the magnetopause using datasets from the Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms (THEMIS), Cluster, Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) spacecraft and interhemispheric ground magnetometer array. Simultaneous with the inward displacement of the magnetopause produced by an increase in solar wind dynamic pressure, we observe the generation of a pair of traveling convection vortices (TCVs) in both polar ionospheres. The TCV events are characterized by their single or twin vortex, of which the centers are located approximately at 72-76 degrees magnetic latitudes, propagating either dawnward or duskward away from local noon. ULF Pc1 waves identified as electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves in association with the initiation of the TCVs were also observed on the ground. It appears that the waves are generated by the increased instability caused by the compression of the magnetosphere during the transient events. We discuss the spatiotemporal structures of the transient phenomena near the magnetopause and their magnetospheric and ionospheric responses, concluding that the signatures are closely associated with the sudden increase of solar wind dynamic pressure.