CHARGED DUST DYNAMICS IN THE SOLAR-SYSTEM

In most space environments, dust particles are exposed to plasmas and UV radiation and, consequently, carry electrostatic charges. Their mot ion is influenced by electric and magnetic fields in addition to gravi ty, drag, and radiation pressure. On the surface of the Moon, in plane tary rings, or at comets, for example, electromagnetic forces can shap e the spatial and size distribution of micron-sized charged dust parti cles. The dynamics of small charged dust particles can be surprisingly complex, leading to levitation, rapid transport, energization and eje ction, capture, and the formation of new planetary rings. This review briefly discusses the most important processes that determine the char ge state of dust particles immersed in plasmas and the resulting dynam ics on exposed dusty surfaces and in planetary magnetospheres.