Sensitivity of the Martian Magnetotail to Model Configuration Choices in Multispecies MHD Simulations

Abstract

Abstract Numerical modeling has been a key component in the study of the Mars space environment, providing a comprehensive global representation that is not always easy to obtain in spacecraft measurements. However, there are inconsistencies in data‐model and model‐model comparisons, regardless of whether the simulation conditions are identical or idealized. We conduct a multispecies MHD case study using a baseline configuration of standard settings, modifying one parameter at a time to examine how the inputs change the structure of the Mars magnetotail current sheet. A total of nine parameters are changed, and our results examine the differences in the magnetic field and total current density. Notable discrepancies in the case study include the grid structure and grid resolution. The use of a generalized or logarithmic grid changes the strength and bifurcation of the magnetotail current sheet. High radial and angular resolution causes the magnetotail current sheet to fluctuate, but including it in simulations allows users to also implement inner boundary and global refinement in the simulation. The baseline configuration established in this investigation will serve as a foundation for future preliminary data‐model comparison with MAVEN observations.