Studying the influence of magnetic obstacles on plasma magnetic fields and wave fluctuations

In our laboratory, we will utilize the BMX plasma gun to observe plasma behavior when an obstruction is placed in its way and to simulate the interaction between the solar wind and planetary magnetic fields. The Bryn Mawr Experiment seeks to replicate this system with a magnetic obstruction induced by a current-carrying wire to observe the effects on magnetic turbulence. By pulsing varying amounts of current through the rod as well as varying the discharge voltage of the gun, we have studied how the magnetic field interacts with the turbulent plasma. We have shown a decrease in measured magnetic field downstream of the magnetic obstacle and are in search of wave fluctuations within the plasma as we continue to observe plasma environments with and without the added magnetic field. Further, to take more comprehensive measurements and get a sense of the global structure of the magnetic field behind the wire obstruction, we have built two 6-point probes, each point an inch apart, measuring in the z direction of the cylindrical coordinate system. In development, we are also building a heterodyne interferometer to take electron density measurements throughout the system.