In a simple model the magnetic field around the earth can be
approximated by an earth specific dipole component and a constant
component that originates from the sun. The axis of the earth's
magnetic dipole changes in the course of several thousand years.
The resulting effects on the total magnetosphere can readily be
examined by way of 3D visualization techniques, notably
Illuminated Streamlines and
Stream LIC Surface (Line Integral Convolution).
Magnetic field lines
Flow surfaces
Line integral convolution
