Magnetohydrodynamic waves in Earth's Magnetosphere and their Impact on Radiation Belt Particles

This project will involve numerical modelling of ultra-low frequency (ULF) waves in Earth's magnetosphere, with the aim of understanding how the structure and evolution of these waves can impact radiation belt particle transport and acceleration. The initial work will involve the student developing an understanding of ULF wave processes in Earth's magnetosphere, together with computational MHD modelling.

To begin with, there are several studies related to the 3D nature of ULF waves which can be undertaken using a pre-existing code, which will serve as a good starting point for the student. For example, understanding from the simulations what would be observed by a spacecraft when passing through a mixed polarisation ULF wave, and comparing this to existing satellite observations.

Once the student has developed a familiarity with the numerical and theoretical aspects related to the subject area, as well as a deeper knowledge of the background literature, we will start looking at how ULF waves can affect radiation belt particles. A key aspect to uncover is how newly developed theory on the structure of ULF waves in 3D inhomogeneous media can impact particle transport/acceleration.

We will run test particles through our MHD simulations in order to investigate this. This will involve significant programming capability from the student, which the initial project will have prepared them for. The simulations should reveal the efficacy and impact of 3D ULF waves for particle acceleration, which will be a major step forward in our understanding of Earth's radiation belts and how energetic particles are excited.