Cross‐Shock Electrostatic Potentials at Mars Inferred From MAVEN Measurements

Abstract A bow shock is generated by the interaction of solar wind with planetary global dipole field (e.g., Earth), or (mainly) ionosphere Mars). The cross‐shock potential has been well studied at Earth but not yet for Mars. We infer and approximate peak in frame invariant de Hoffmann‐Teller profile Mars ( ϕ ) data from Atmospheric Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) mission. find that its ratio to ram ion energy E vary similarly against zenith angle (SZA, a proxy between flow normal) magnetic latitudes. Our results also reveal no significant dependence on parameters such as upstream interplanetary (IMF) normal plasma beta wind. There somewhat positive correlation magnetosonic Mach number amplification across shock. cycle effect location, closer planet near minimum, expected. Lastly, similarities differences potentials are discussed. Characterizing electron energization high‐altitude loss influenced thereby work here.