Search

Whistler-mode waves upstream of planetary bow shock are often referred to as “1-Hz waves” due to the center of their observed frequency range being at ∼1 Hz. A series of whistler-mode waves were observed upstream of the Martian bow shock by MAVEN on 2015 August 14, with unusually low frequencies centered at ∼0.4 Hz. These waves were accompanied (though not synchronized) by the significant flux enhancement of high-energy protons up to ∼10 keV. By analyzing the wave dispersion property and the wave–particle interaction condition, we find that the observed whistler-mode waves have the potential of resonating with protons of ∼1 keV with large pitch angles up to nearly perpendicular to the background magnetic field, thereby providing a feasible means of accounting for proton acceleration. Our results indicate the possible origin of energized protons in the Martian environment through the interaction with whistler-mode waves, and their potential relationship with the unique upstream conditions.

The foreshock region filled with turbulences is a natural lab for studying interactions between plasma and waves. The underlying processes are vital for dissipating the energy carried by the solar wind into the Martian environment. In this study, we analyze an ultralow-frequency wave observed on 2015 August 14 by Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution upstream of the Martian bow shock. The wave properties match with those of 30 s waves; the dispersion calculation shows that the upstream plasma was capable of generating the observed waves. The analysis of the ion behaviors implies the wave generated without a field-aligned beam, while the growth rate of waves seems to be modulated by the interplanetary magnetic field conditions. These results indicate the unique role of the Martian foreshock in the interaction between the solar wind and the planet.