Control of the Jovian Magnetopause by Iogenic Plasma: Initial Results From Global MHD Simulations

The size and variability of Jupiter's magnetosphere are not only determined by upstream conditions but also substantially influenced by internal processes within Jupiter's magnetosphere, specifically the dynamics of the rotation magnetodisc. However, given the considerable range and uncertainties in the estimated Io mass loading rate (IMLR), it remains unclear whether the size and variability of Jupiter's magnetosphere is directly controlled by the extent of IMLR. In this study, we conducted a series of numerical experiments to explore the impact of IMLR on the variability of the magnetopause. Our results indicate that an enhanced IMLR results in a larger magnetosphere with greater variability in the magnetopause location, due to a higher radial dynamic pressure originated from interchange structures. Our study emphasizes the significance of the IMLR in understanding the variations in Jupiter's magnetosphere. These insights are essential for elucidating the dynamic processes in internally mass-loaded and/or rapidly rotating systems.