On the Growth and Development of Non‐Linear Kelvin–Helmholtz Instability at Mars: MAVEN Observations

In this study, we have analyzed Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) observations of fields plasma signatures associated with an encounter fully developed Kelvin–Helmholtz (K–H) vortices at the northern polar terminator along Mars' induced magnetosphere boundary. The K–H event are: (a) quasi-periodic, “bipolar-like” sawtooth magnetic field perturbations, (b) corresponding density decrease, (c) tailward enhancement velocity for both protons heavy ions, (d) co-existence magnetosheath planetary in region prior to signature (i.e., mixing vortex structure), (e) pressure (minimum) edge (center) signature. Our results strongly support scenario non-linear growth instability Mars’ boundary, where a flow difference between induced-magnetospheric is expected. findings are also good agreement 3-dimensional local magnetohydrodynamics simulation results. MAVEN energies greater than 10 keV from Walén analyses suggests possibility particle energization within structure via reconnection, secondary instabilities or other turbulent processes. We estimate lower limit on linear rate be ∼5.84 × 10−3 s−1. For these vortices, instantaneous atmospheric ion escape flux due detachment clouds during late stage ∼5.90 1026 particles/s. Extrapolation loss rates integrated across time space will require further work.