Global problems in magnetospheric plasma physics and prospects for their solution

Selected problems of magnetospheric plasma physics are critically reviewed. The discussion is restricted to questions that are global in nature, i.e., involve the magnetosphere as a whole, and that are beyond the stage of systematic survey or isolated study requirements. Only low-energy particle aspects are discussed. The article focuses on the following subjects: (i) Effect of the interplanetary magnetic field on topography, topology and stability of the magnetospheric boundary; (ii) Solar wind plasma entry into the magnetosphere; (iii) Plasma storage and release mechanisms in the magnetospheric tail; (iv) Magnetic-field-aligned currents and magnetosphere-ionosphere interactions. A brief discussion of the prospects for the solution of these problems during and after the International Magnetospheric Study is given.Prepared for the Panel on Heliosphere Hydromagnetics of the National Academy of Sciences and for the Steering Committee of the International Magnetospheric Study.