Solar Orbiter observations of the structure of reconnection outflow layers in the solar wind

We briefly review an existing model of the structure of reconnection layers which predicts that several more distinct layers, in the form of contact discontinuities, rotational Alfven waves, or slow shocks, should be identifiable in solar wind reconnection events than are typically reported in studies of reconnection outflows associated with bifurcated current sheets. We re-examine this notion and recast the identification of such layers in terms of the changes associated with the boundaries of both the ion and electron outflows from the reconnection current layers. We then present a case study using Solar Orbiter MAG and SWA data, which provides evidence consistent with this picture of extended multiple layers around the bifurcated current sheet. A full confirmation of this picture requires more detailed examination of the particle distributions in this and other events. However, we believe this concept is a valuable framework for considering the nature of reconnection layers in the solar wind.

Automated summary

This study re-examines the existing model of the structure of reconnection layers in solar wind events, proposing the existence of multiple distinct layers around bifurcated current sheets. Evidence from a case study using Solar Orbiter data supports this concept, but further detailed examination is needed for full confirmation.