Harnett et al. [2003] coined the term 'mini-magnetospheres' to describe the structures that can form around magnetic anomalies on the surface of the Moon. With multiple dipoles, a mini-magnetosphere can play a significant role in deflecting the solar wind.
Harnett [2010] used particle tracking simulations to demonstrate that solar energetic particles (SEP) flux at the Moon can be reduced for storm conditions when the magnitude of the magnetic field in the sheath is enhanced, and that plasmodia are also effective at reducing SEP flux from the tailward direction. Winglee and Harnett [2007] demonstrated that magnetic field from Earth's magnetosphere can potentially provide radiation shielding from hazards including SEPs and galactic cosmic rays during human exploration of the lunar surface.