Imaging complex three dimensional Alfve´n wave currents

Alfve´n waves exist in plasmas in which the ions are magnetized. They are found in the solar wind, the earth´s magnetosphere, the solar corona, and possibly in intergalactic space. They play a role in Tokamak edge turbulence. Toroidal Alfve´n eigenmodes could effect the confinement of future fusion devices. With the advent of quiescent plasma sources, these waves are now studied in great detail in controlled laboratory experiments. We present measurements of three-dimensional current systems associated with these waves, and illustrate a visualization technique necessary to quickly picture them.