Seasonal variations of the Martian magnetosphere: Tianwen-1 observations

Mars exhibits a unique hybrid magnetospheric environment, characterized by interactions between the solar wind and both the ionosphere and the localized crustal magnetic fields. This configuration renders the Martian magnetosphere highly sensitive to external influences, including solar activity and seasonal variations. Here, we present findings from the Tianwen-1 mission and the MAVEN mission, providing insights into the dynamic behavior of the Martian magnetosphere. The Tianwen-1’s MINPA instrument and MAVEN’s STATIC instrument enabled the characterization of ionospheric ion motions, revealing critical dependencies on local crustal fields, variations in solar EUV flux, and fluctuations in solar wind dynamic pressure. By integrating Tianwen-1 and MAVEN datasets, this research advances our understanding of Mars’s magnetospheric variability and its implications for atmospheric loss. These findings not only deepen our knowledge of Martian atmospheric evolution and potential habitability but also inform future exploration strategies for planetary sciences.