Drivers of asymmetric proton density in the Martian magnetosheath

Identify the factors responsible for the asymmetric distribution of solar wind proton number density between the quasi-parallel and quasi-perpendicular regions of the Martian magnetosheath, and ascertain their relative contributions.

Background

The paper finds that the Martian magnetosheath exhibits an asymmetry in solar wind proton density that differs from Earth, suggesting additional influences beyond shock geometry. Planetary oxygen ions show an opposite trend to protons, hinting at potential coupling, but the authors explicitly state that the underlying causes remain unresolved.

Clarifying the mechanisms behind this proton density asymmetry is essential for accurate modeling of plasma distributions and for understanding how solar wind mass and momentum are processed in Mars’ induced magnetosphere.