The Near-Saturn Magnetic Field Environment

• Main Author: Sulaiman, Ali Haidar (Author)
• Corporate Author: SpringerLink (Online service)
• Format: Electronic eBook
• Language: English
• Published: Cham : Springer International Publishing : Imprint: Springer, 2017.
• Series: Springer Theses, Recognizing Outstanding Ph.D. Research,
• Subjects: Physics.; Astrophysics.; Space Sciences (including Extraterrestrial Physics, Space Exploration and Astronautics).; Solar and Heliospheric Physics.; Planetary Sciences.; Astrophysics and Astroparticles.

 This thesis focuses on the very high Mach number shock wave that is located sunward of Saturn's strong magnetic field in the continuous high-speed flow of charged particles from the Sun (the solar wind). The author exploits the fact that the Cassini spacecraft is the only orbiter in a unique parameter regime, far different from the more familiar near-Earth space, to provide in-situ insights into the unreachable exotic regime of supernova remnants. This thesis bridges the gap between shock physics in the Solar System and the physics of ultra-high Mach number shocks around the remnants of supernova explosions, since to date research into the latter has been restricted to theory, remote observations, and simulations. 

 Introduction to Space Plasmas -- The Sun-Saturn Connection -- Spacecraft and Instrumentation -- Magnetic Field Characterisation of Saturn’s Bow Shock -- Quasi-perpendicular High Mach Number Collisionless Shocks -- The Magnetic Structure of Saturn’s Magnetosheath -- Summary and Perspective -- Bibliography.