Dynamo Processes Constrained by Solar and Stellar Observations

TL;DR

This paper reviews observational and simulation-based constraints on stellar dynamos across different star types, highlighting current understanding and unresolved puzzles in stellar magnetic activity.

Contribution

It synthesizes observational trends and simulation insights to better understand stellar dynamo mechanisms across various star types.

Findings

Starspot and sunspot pattern observations constrain dynamo models.

Magnetism-rotation correlations reveal key dynamo properties.

Simulations provide insights but many puzzles remain.

Abstract

Our understanding of stellar dynamos has largely been driven by the phenomena we have observed of our own Sun. Yet, as we amass longer-term datasets for an increasing number of stars, it is clear that there is a wide variety of stellar behavior. Here we briefly review observed trends that place key constraints on the fundamental dynamo operation of solar-type stars to fully convective M dwarfs, including: starspot and sunspot patterns, various magnetism-rotation correlations, and mean field flows such as differential rotation and meridional circulation. We also comment on the current insight that simulations of dynamo action and flux emergence lend to our working knowledge of stellar dynamo theory. While the growing landscape of both observations and simulations of stellar magnetic activity work in tandem to decipher dynamo action, there are still many puzzles that we have yet to fully understand.