| Astrophysics (Index) | About |
The term magnetic switchback refers to a feature of the solar magnetic field in which field lines bend sharply, then bend sharply again back to roughly their original direction, as suggested by shape of the letter "Z". They are not evident from distant observation: they were discovered with in situ observation by Ulysses in 1994-1995, and have been observed more recently by the Parker Solar Probe and the Solar Orbiter. There are a number of theories regarding their origin and the manner in which they fit within the entire field, i.e., they are of current research interest. One theory is that they are merely pieces of a flux rope observed from within. Other theories suggest they result from turbulence within the solar wind or that magnetic reconnection is involved in their instigation.