Understanding the Global Coronal Magnetic Fields using Data-constrained
Magnetohydrodynamic Model
Abstract
Coronal magnetic field evolution modulates our space environment via
coronal mass ejections, flares, and changes in solar wind conditions.
However, routine observations of magnetic field in the optically thin
solar corona are not yet well-developed. Hence understanding the coronal
magnetic field distribution using data-constrained global
magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) models is of paramount importance nowadays.
There are several factors which can drive the evolution e.g. flux
emergence, photospheric flows, stratification in thermodynamic
variables, solar wind conditions. Simulations using MHD models will help
us generate the global magnetic field distribution, which can be
constrained using total solar eclipse observations. Apart from this,
such models have the potential to generate polarization characteristics
utilizing the model output, which will help in better interpretation of
data from future solar missions like PUNCH. We discuss the magnetic
field distribution and polarization characteristics for past solar
eclipses based on MHD simulations for global solar corona using a
variety of approaches based on data-driven surface flux transport
models, potential field source surface models and full MHD models.