About the Models:

Magnetic reconnection plays a key role in determine the dynamics of the magnetosphere. It allows opening of the magnetic fields, allowing the direct entry of solar wind plasma into the magnetosphere. It also allows the conversion of energy stored in the magnetic field to be dissipated and used to accelerate particles to high energies, some of which are seen in association with aurora. These processes are studied through 2-D and 3-D particle simulations that allow the self-consistent treatment of the evolution of the magnetic field with the particle dynamics. The example shows the development of a magnetic island (plasmoid) and magnetic ropes (red lines) driven by magnetic reconnection. Particle effects are critical in the generation of flux rope through intrinsic currents not incorporated in fluid treatments.

Movies of Magnetotail Reconnection:

	A movie showing reconnection in the Earth's magnetosphere.
	Another movie showing a larger area of the Earth's magnetosphere.
	High resolution movie of reconnection in the Earth's magnetosphere. (50Mybtes)
	Top view of reconnection in the tailfrom high resolution runs (50Mybtes).