3-D images will let us "see" the whole magnetosphere

TWINS: A View of the Magnetosphere

The Two Wide-angle Imaging Neutral-atom Spectrometers (TWINS) project is a new mission to do stereo neutral atom imaging of the Earth's magnetosphere. Starting in 2003, this mission will take pictures of the magnetosphere from two viewpoints, providing the first three-dimensional images of the Earth's magnetic environment. These 3D images will let us "see" the whole magnetosphere at one time and give us a picture of how different parts of the magnetosphere interact with each other. We will get images of the magnetosphere both at quiet times and at times when the Earth's magnetic field is disturbed. These disturbances can be seen at the Earth in the form of intense auroras, and in some cases can affect power systems and satellites on or near the Earth.

Dynamic Pictures of the Earth's Plasma

By providing the first stereo views of the Earth's magnetosphere, TWINS images will not only introduce a new avenue of magnetospheric and plasma space science, but will also excite the general public, science educators, and students with their dynamic protrayal through pictures of the structure and dynamics of the Earth's plasma environment. Through the TWINS images, magnetospheric physics will be able to join astrophysics in the ability to convey the thrill of discovery in vivid pictures in the news and education media. TWINS images will captivate the public as we explore the outer reaches of the Earth's space environs.

Exciting Concepts of the Sun and Earth

The TWINS images will stimulate the interest of students by providing a picture of the environment of the Earth, the environment in which we live. TWINS science will demonstrate the effect of the Sun on the Earth, and show how different regions of the Earth's magnetosphere are afffected by changes in the solar environment. Students will learn exciting concepts about the effects of the Sun on the Earth and on human life, both on Earth and in space.

TWINS Study Areas

• Neutral atoms and charged particles
• The Earth's magnetic field
• Geomagnetic storms and substorms
• Auroras
• The 11-year cycle
• Space weather: the effects of the Sun on human life on earth and in space

Compelling Images

The TWINS images themselves should be compelling for the general public, as they will provide the first 3D picture of the Earth's plasma environment. The project will focus on the effect of the Sun on the Earth, both from a scientific viewpoint and in terms of the effects on man-made satellites, power grids, and space travelers.

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