Glossary – M
Massive Compact Halo Objects
A large-scale disturbance of the magnetosphere, often initiated by the arrival of an interplanetary shock originating at the Sun.
The boundary surface between the solar wind and the magnetosphere where the pressure of the magnetic field equals the pressure of the solar wind
The region surrounding a celestial body where its magnetic field controls the motions of charged particles.
The portion of a planetary magnetosphere which is pushed in the direction of the solar wind
A 70-year period from 1645 to 1715 when sunspots were rare.
Mars Exploration Planning & Analysis Group
Of or relating to a meteorological phenomenon approximately 10 to 1000 kilometers in horizontal extent.
Any of the small particles of matter in the solar system that are directly observable only by their incandescence from frictional heating on entry into the atmosphere.
A meteor that reaches the surface of the earth without being completely vaporized.
Study of the atmosphere and its phenomena.
The physics of molecules, atoms, and elementary particles.
Medium Explorer
The galaxy of which the sun and the solar system are a part and which contains the myriads of stars that create the light of the Milky Way.
NASA Science-funded activity with the purpose of meeting goals laid out by presidential directive, and detailed in Science Mission Directorate's strategic plan.
To cause to become less harsh or hostile.
Mars Long-lived Lander Network
Magnetospheric Multiscale
A mathematical representation of a process, system, or object developed to understand its behavior or to make predictions. The representation always involves certain simplifications and assumptions.
Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer
To vary the amplitude, frequency, or phase of (a carrier wave or a light wave) for the transmission of information (as by radio); to vary the velocity of electrons in an electron beam.
Minority University-Space Interdisciplinary Network
