Magnetospheric launching in resistive MHD simulations

TL;DR

This paper presents resistive MHD simulations of magnetospheric launching near young stars, revealing four evolutionary stages and the influence of resistivity on magnetic field structure and outflows.

Contribution

First resistive MHD simulations capturing detailed magnetospheric interaction stages in young stellar objects.

Findings

Identification of four robust evolutionary stages.

Quasi-stationary outflows sustained by magnetic reconnections.

Magnetic field shape depends on resistivity levels.

Abstract

We perform numerical simulations in the close vicinity of a slowly rotating young stellar object. Using our own resistive MHD Zeus347 code in 2D axisymmetry, magnetospheric interaction experiences four robust stages in evolution. Quasi-stationary axial and conical streams of outflowing matter can last many orbital periods as results of the resistivity-facilitated magnetic reconnections. The shape of the magnetic field depends on resistivity in the magnetosphere.