Properties of Mars Induced Magnetic Fields as Compared to Venus

Since 2014, NASA’s MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN) spacecraft, which orbits Mars, has been gathering data to observe how the solar wind interacts with Mars’ upper atmosphere. The purpose of the MAVEN mission is to research the upper atmosphere’s interactions with solar wind to gain an understanding of how loss of volatiles has progressed through time. This gives insight into the history of the planet’s atmosphere, climate, and previous habitability. Our research is focused on characterizing the planet’s induced magnetic field. We aim to assess how the induced magnetic fields behave under different solar wind conditions and solar zenith angles, and additionally, understand how planet-specific properties (such as Mars crustal magnetism) alter the formation and structure of the magnetic fields. Additionally, We use data from the Pioneer Venus Orbiter to compare induced magnetic fields at Venus with those at Mars.