NASA | Goddard's Speedy MMS Instruments Will Measure Mysterious Physics

The video discusses magnetic reconnection, a process where magnetic fields merge and release energy, occurring in various environments like the sun and Earth's magnetosphere. Understanding this phenomenon is crucial for space weather prediction and nuclear fusion. The Earth's magnetosphere is a convenient study location due to its impact on space weather. The video highlights the challenges of measuring magnetic reconnection, which occurs rapidly. It details the instruments used, including spectrometers developed at Goddard, and the collaborative effort in building and launching the MMS spacecraft to study this phenomenon.

What is magnetic reconnection and why is it important?

• A process where magnetic fields merge, releasing energy, crucial for understanding nuclear fusion.

• A method of creating magnetic fields for energy production.

• A technique used to measure the Earth's magnetic field.

• A phenomenon that occurs only in interplanetary space.

Why is Earth's magnetosphere chosen for studying magnetic reconnection?

• It is the only place where magnetic reconnection occurs.

• It provides a convenient location to study the phenomenon and its effects on space weather.

• It is the closest stellar environment to Earth.

• It is the only environment where nuclear fusion can be observed.

What challenge is faced when measuring magnetic reconnection in Earth's magnetosphere?

• The region of occurrence is too far from the spacecraft.

• The instruments are not sensitive enough to detect it.

• The phenomenon occurs over a long period, making it hard to capture.

• The reconnection region sweeps over the spacecraft in a very short time.

What do the dual electron spectrometers measure?

• The speed and density of ions.

• The magnetic field strength and direction.

• The energy, direction, and abundance of electrons.

• The temperature and pressure of the plasma.

How many electron spectrometers are used in the MMS mission?

• 16

• 12

• 8

• 4