The Spatial Extent of Magnetopause Magnetic Reconnection From In Situ THEMIS Measurements

Abstract Magnetic reconnection at the magnetopause has long been studied with multi‐spacecraft observations. In this work, data from five satellite THEMIS mission during years of 2008–2010 are used to generate statistics regarding spatial extent reconnection. The presence a reconnecting is determined Walén relation as two satellites cross simultaneously. some cases both measure whereas in others one measures and other does not. This study finds that spacecraft more likely observe contiguous region closer they spatially, not always extended around entire magnetopause. Plasma β gradient drifts investigated cause local suppression. Spacecraft position along flanks also possible limitation due changes shear flow or boundary thickness.