A Pressure Pulse‐Driven Transient Magnetospheric Event

Abstract

AbstractBursty reconnection models predict that flux transfer events (FTEs) moving along the magnetopause launch fast mode compressional waves into the magnetosheath that push the bow shock outward. By contrast, increases in the solar wind density striking the bow shock should push that boundary inward and launch fast mode compressional waves that propagate across the magnetosheath, drive waves on the magnetopause, and generate transient events in the outer magnetosphere. Multipoint ACE, Wind, THEMIS, and GOES‐11/12 solar wind, bow shock, and magnetospheric observations on 14 October 2008 provide direct evidence for solar wind pressure pulses producing a large amplitude indentation with crater FTE‐like properties on the magnetopause.