NORDITA

Program   16 May — 7 June 2022

Dynamo theory explains why the plasma in our universe is magnetized. As we now know, astrophysical turbulence without magnetic fields does not exist. This has dramatic consequences, especially when the magnetic Prandtl number is very different from unity. Examples include the interstellar medium and especially clusters of galaxies. There we also reach the limits of validity of magnetohydrodynamics and thus need to worry about the correct microphysical description. In the Sun, a large-scale dynamo is most likely operational within the bulk of the convection zone, but this situation drastically changes as the surface and atmosphere are reached. Simulating these aspects correctly on the computer requires special care, which we are only now beginning to appreciate. The goal is to use Nordita's inhouse expertise in the field of dynamo theory to draw together experts from within the Nordic countries and elsewhere to prepare the way for new work.