Interaction of solar wind with Mars as seen by charged particle traps on Mars 2, 3, and 5 satellites

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Abstract
The near‐Martian plasma measurements carried out by means of charged particle traps aboard the Mars 2, 3, and 5 satellites are reviewed. The planetary bow shock was observed; in a number of satellite passes near the planet the boundary of the obstacle that causes the bow shock was crossed. Arguments supporting the existence of an intrinsic magnetic field of Mars and of the possible existence of a quasi‐isotropic plasma zone in the Martian magnetic tail are given. The behavior of the plasma and magnetic field at the obstacle boundary gives evidence favoring a magnetic nature for the obstacle (i.e., favoring the existence of a Martian magnetosphere).