Cross-comparison of global simulation models applied to Mercury’s dayside magnetosphere

We present the first comparison of multiple global simulations solar wind interaction with Mercury’s dayside magnetosphere, conducted in framework international collaborative project SHOTS - Studies on Hermean magnetosphere Oriented Theories and Simulations. Two 3D magnetohydrodynamic two hybrid simulation codes are used to investigate response without its exosphere a northward-oriented interplanetary magnetic field. cross-compare results four for theoretical case MESSENGER orbit similar upstream plasma conditions. The models agree bowshock magnetopause locations at 2.1 ?± ?0.11 1.4 ?0.1 Mercury planetary radii, respectively. latter may be influenced by subtle differences treatment boundary surface. predicted magnetosheath thickness varies less between codes. Finally, we also sample data along virtual trajectories BepiColombo’s Magnetospheric Planetary Orbiter. Our ability accurately predict structure aids analysis onboard measurements past future magnetospheric missions.