Statistical Properties of Mirror-mode Structures in Jupiter’s Magnetosheath Based on Juno Observations

Abstract Mirror-mode (MM) structures, characterized by intermittent sharp depressions or enhancements of magnetic magnitude, are key plasma-instability-driven phenomena and commonly observed in high- β and temperature-anisotropic space plasmas. Although MM structures have been well studied in Earth’s magnetosheath, their properties in Jupiter’s magnetosheath remain poorly understood due to the limited spatial and temporal coverage of previous missions. Here, by using Juno observations, we present the first comprehensive statistical analysis of MM structures in Jupiter’s magnetosheath. We investigate their spatial distribution and occurrence rate across a broad range of latitudes, thereby clarifying their global spatial characteristics. In addition, we examine the electron pitch-angle distributions associated with MM events to explore particle behavior and possible wave–particle interactions within these structures. These results advance our understanding of the formation and evolution of MM structures in giant planetary magnetosheaths and their related electron dynamics in Jupiter’s magnetosheath.