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At least 235 records · Page 13

Secondary Inorganic Aerosol Chemistry and Its Impact on Atmospheric Visibility Over an Ammonia-Rich Urban Area in Central Taiwan

This study investigated the hourly inorganic aerosol chemistry and its impact on atmospheric visibility over an urban area in Central Taiwan, by relying on measurements of aerosol light extinction, inorganic gases, and PM 2.5 water-soluble ions (WSIs), and simulations from a thermodynamic equilibrium model. On average, the sulfate (SO 4 2− ), nitrate (NO 3 − ), and ammonium (NH 4 + ) components (SNA) contributed ∼90% of WSI concentrations, which in turn made up about 50% of the PM 2.5 mass. During the entire observation period, PM 2.5 and SNA concentrations, aerosol pH, aerosol liquid water content (ALWC), and sulfur and nitrogen conversion ratios all increased with decreasing visibility. In particular, the NO 3 − contribution to PM 2.5 increased, whereas the SO 4 2− contribution decreased, with decreasing visibility. The diurnal variations of the above parameters indicate that the interaction and likely mutual promotion between NO 3 − and ALWC enhanced the hygroscopicity and aqueous-phase reactions conducive for NO 3 − formation, thus led to severely impaired visibility. The high relative humidity (RH) at the study area (average 70.7%) was a necessary but not sole factor leading to enhanced NO 3 − formation, which was more directly associated with elevated ALWC and aerosol pH. Simulations from the thermodynamic model depict that the inorganic aerosol system in the study area was characterized by fully neutralized SO 4 2− (i.e. a saturated factor in visibility reduction) and excess NH 4 + amidst a NH 3 -rich environment. As a result, PM 2.5 composition was most sensitive to gas-phase HNO 3 , and hence NOx, and relatively insensitive to NH 3 . Consequently, a reduction of NOx would result in instantaneous cuts of NO 3 − , PM 2.5 , and ALWC, and hence improved visibility. On the other hand, a substantial amount of NH 3 reduction (>70%) would be required to lower the aerosol pH, driving more than 50% of the particulate phase NO 3 − to the gas phase, thereby making NH 3 a limiting factor in shifting PM 2.5 composition.

aerosol chemistry↗

The Cold Land Processes Experiment (CLPX-1): Analysis and Modelling of LSOS Data (IOP3 Period)

Microwave brightness temperatures at 18.7,36.5, and 89 GHz collected at the Local-Scale Observation Site (LSOS) of the NASA Cold-Land Processes Field Experiment in February, 2003 (third Intensive Observation Period) were simulated using a Dense Media Radiative Transfer model (DMRT), based on the Quasi Crystalline Approximation with Coherent Potential (QCA-CP). Inputs to the model were averaged from LSOS snow pit measurements, although different averages were used for the lower frequencies vs. the highest one, due to the different penetration depths and to the stratigraphy of the snowpack. Mean snow particle radius was computed as a best-fit parameter. Results show that the model was able to reproduce satisfactorily brightness temperatures measured by the University of Tokyo s Ground Based Microwave Radiometer system (CBMR-7). The values of the best-fit snow particle radii were found to fall within the range of values obtained by averaging the field-measured mean particle sizes for the three classes of Small, Medium and Large grain sizes measured at the LSOS site.

Tedesco, Marco↗

Studying Turbulence Using Numerical Simulation Databases: Proceedings of the 1996 Summer Program - Part 6

Topics considered include: New approach to turbulence modeling; Second moment closure analysis of the backstep flow database; Prediction of the backflow and recovery regions in the backward facing step at various Reynolds numbers; Turbulent flame propagation in partially premixed flames; Ensemble averaged dynamic modeling. Also included a study of the turbulence structures of wall-bounded shear flows; Simulation and modeling of the elliptic streamline flow.

Source record↗

Comparison of Integrated Radiation Transport Models with TEPC Measurements for the Average Quality Factors in Spaceflights

The purpose of this work is to test our theoretical model for the interpretation of radiation data measured in space. During the space missions astronauts are exposed to the complex field of radiation type and kinetic energies from galactic cosmic rays (GCR), trapped protons, and sometimes solar particle events (SPEs). The tissue equivalent proportional counter (TEPC) is a simple time-dependent approach for radiation monitoring for astronauts on board the International Space Station. Another and a newer approach to Microdosimetry is the use of silicon-on-insulator (SOI) technology launched on the MidSTAR-1 mission in low Earth orbit (LEO). In the radiation protection practice, the average quality factor of a radiation field is defined as a function of linear energy transfer (LET), Q(sub ave)(LET). However, TEPC measures the average quality factor as a function of the lineal energy y, Q(sub ave)(y), defined as the average energy deposition in a volume divided by the average chord length of the volume. Lineal energy, y, deviates from LET due to energy straggling, delta-ray escape or entry, and nuclear fragments produced in the detector volume. Monte Carlo track structure simulation was employed to obtain the response of a TEPC irradiated with charged particle for an equivalent site diameter of 1 micron of wall-less counter. The calculated data of the energy absorption in the wall-less counter were compiled for various y values for several ion types at various discrete projectile energy levels. For the simulation of TEPC response from the mixed radiation environments inside a spacecraft, such as, Space Shuttle and International Space Station, the complete microdosimetric TEPC response, f( y, E, Z), were calculated with the Monte Carlo theoretical results by using the first order Lagrangian interpolation for a monovariate function at a given y value (y = 0.1 keV/micron 5000 keV/micron) at any projectile energy level (E = 0.01 MeV/u to 50,000 MeV/u) of each specific radiation type (Z = 1 to 28). Because the anomalous response has been observed at large event sizes in the experiment due to the escape of energy out of sensitive volume by delta-rays and the entry of delta-rays from the high-density wall into the low-density gas-volume cavity, Monte Carlo simulation was also made for the response of a walled-TEPC with wall thickness 2 mm and density 1 g/cm(exp 3). The radius of cavity was set to 6.35 mm and a gas density 7.874 x 10(exp -5) g/cm(exp 3). The response of the walled- and the wall-less counters were compared. The average quality factor Q(sub ave)(y) for trapped protons on STS-89 demonstrated the good agreement between the model calculations and flight TEPC data as shown. Using an integrated space radiation model (this includes the transport codes HZETRN and BRYNTRN, the quantum nuclear interaction model QMSFRG) and the resultant response distribution functions of walled-TEPC from Monte-Carlo track simulations, we compared model calculations with walled-TEPC measurements from NASA missions in LEO and made predictions for the lunar and the Mars missions. The Q(sub ave)(y) values for the trapped or the solar protons ranged from 1.9-2.5. This over-estimates the Qave(LET) values which ranged from 1.4-1.6. Both quantities increase with shield thickness due to nuclear fragmentation. The Q(sub ave)(LET) for the complete GCR spectra was found to be 3.5-4.5, while flight TEPCs measured 2.9-3.4 for Q(sub ave)(y). The GCR values are decreasing with the shield thickness. Our analysis for a proper interpretation of data supports the use of TEPCs for monitoring space radiation environment.

Kim, Myung-Hee Y.↗

Random Process Simulation for stochastic fatigue analysis

A simulation technique is described which directly synthesizes the extrema of a random process and is more efficient than the Gaussian simulation method. Such a technique is particularly useful in stochastic fatigue analysis because the required stress range moment E(R sup m), is a function only of the extrema of the random stress process. The family of autoregressive moving average (ARMA) models is reviewed and an autoregressive model is presented for modeling the extrema of any random process which has a unimodal power spectral density (psd). The proposed autoregressive technique is found to produce rainflow stress range moments which compare favorably with those computed by the Gaussian technique and to average 11.7 times faster than the Gaussian technique. The autoregressive technique is also adapted for processes having bimodal psd's. The adaptation involves using two autoregressive processes to simulate the extrema due to each mode and the superposition of these two extrema sequences. The proposed autoregressive superposition technique is 9 to 13 times faster than the Gaussian technique and produces comparable values for E(R sup m) for bimodal psd's having the frequency of one mode at least 2.5 times that of the other mode.

Larsen, Curtis E.↗

On the design of a science orbit about Europa

A science mission about Europa requires high-inclination low-altitude orbits. However, perturbations of Jupiter on the orbiter result in instability. Previous approaches to maximize the lifetime of the orbiter use the doubly averaged problem. We work with the unaveraged equations and find unstable periodic orbits with long lifetimes. These low-altitude repeat ground track solutions exist at all inclinations, making them suitable for mapping missions. The governing dynamics include Hill's model and a Europa gravity field based on synchronous moon theory. Inclusion of additional gravity terms is trivial to the solution method, and for the case of J3, we find a marginal impact on orbit lifetime. The science orbits are found to last on the order of 1 year when the initial conditions are achieved to 11 significant digits and 4 months when only 3 significant digits are achieved. Finally, we demonstrate that the solutions are robust in a realistic ephemeris model, finding average lifetimes of 3 to 4 months for wide range of initial conditions with peak lifetimes of up to 6 months.

unstable↗

X-59 Sonic Boom Test Results from the NASA Glenn 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel

A wind tunnel test was conducted to investigate near-field sonic boom pressure signatures of the X-59 Low-Boom Flight Demonstrator aircraft. A 1.62%-scale model of the aircraft was fabricated for the wind tunnel test, which took place in the NASA Glenn 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel in September and October 2021. The model had provisions for being mounted by a swept blade strut that attached at top of model ahead of the inlet, or by a rear-entry sting that held the model at the location of the nacelle. The model had alternate parts for ±0.5° deflections of the flaps, ailerons, and stabilator, and ±1° deflections of the T-tail. Off-body static pressure measurements of the flow field below the model were made on a pressure rail which had 420 orifices along its tip. The model was positioned at various heights from the rail by vertical movement of the tunnel strut, and at various longitudinal stations relative to the rail by means of a linear actuator mounted between the wind tunnel strut and the balance. Spatial averaging of model pressure signatures acquired over a range of longitudinal positions reduced the effects of tunnel flow distortions and the interference of the rail flow field and shocks on the model pressure signatures. The test was run at approximate Mach numbers of 1.36, 1.4, and 1.47, and the model was set at various angles of attack and roll relative to the rail. Plots of the model signatures for representative variations of Mach number, model angles, control deflections, and height relative to the rail are provided throughout the report. Repeatability was generally very good and gave confidence in the quality of the measurements. The signatures measured at various heights from the rail provided insight into the aging of the model shocks as they propagated from 1.2 to 3 body lengths from the model. Off-track signatures up to 45° from centerline obtained by rolling the model gave indications of the shock flow fields across the width of the sonic boom carpet. The deflections of the various control surfaces allowed assessment of the boom sensitivity to the control surface movements.

Sonic boom↗

X-59 Sonic Boom Test Results from the NASA Glenn 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel

A wind tunnel test was conducted to investigate near-field sonic boom pressure signatures of the X-59 Low-Boom Flight Demonstrator aircraft. A 1.62%-scale model of the aircraft was fabricated for the wind tunnel test, which took place in the NASA Glenn 8- by 6-Foot Supersonic Wind Tunnel in September and October 2021. The model had provisions for being mounted by a swept blade strut that attached at top of model ahead of the inlet, or by a rear-entry sting that held the model at the location of the nacelle. The model had alternate parts for ±0.5° deflections of the flaps, ailerons, and stabilator, and ±1° deflections of the T-tail. Off-body static pressure measurements of the flow field below the model were made on a pressure rail which had 420 orifices along its tip. The model was positioned at various heights from the rail by vertical movement of the tunnel strut, and at various longitudinal stations relative to the rail by means of a linear actuator mounted between the wind tunnel strut and the balance. Spatial averaging of model pressure signatures acquired over a range of longitudinal positions reduced the effects of tunnel flow distortions and the interference of the rail flow field and shocks on the model pressure signatures. The test was run at approximate Mach numbers of 1.36, 1.4, and 1.47, and the model was set at various angles of attack and roll relative to the rail. Plots of the model signatures for representative variations of Mach number, model angles, control deflections, and height relative to the rail are provided throughout the report. Repeatability was generally very good and gave confidence in the quality of the measurements. The signatures measured at various heights from the rail provided insight into the aging of the model shocks as they propagated from 1.2 to 3 body lengths from the model. Off-track signatures up to 45° from centerline obtained by rolling the model gave indications of the shock flow fields across the width of the sonic boom carpet. The deflections of the various control surfaces allowed assessment of the boom sensitivity to the control surface movements.

Sonic boom↗

Identification of the dynamics of a two-dimensional grid structure using least square lattice filters

It is doubtful whether the dynamics of large space structures (LSS) can be predicted well enough for control system design applications. Hence, dynamic modeling from on-orbit measurements followed by a modification of the control system is of interest, taking into account the utilization of adaptive control concepts. The present paper is concerned with the model determination phase of the adaptive control problem. Using spectral decoupling to determine mode shapes, mode frequency and damping data can be obtained with the aid of an equation error parameter identification method. This method employs a second-order auto-regressive moving average (ARMA) model to represent the natural mode amplitudes. The discussed procedure involves an extension of the application of the least square lattice filter in system identification to a nonintegral, two-dimensional grid structure made of overlapping bars.

Montgomery, R. C.↗

The sensitivity of total ozone and ozone perturbation scenarios in a two-dimensional model due to dynamical inputs

The sensitivity of the total ozone distribution in the Douglass et al. (1989) photochemical model to the dynamical inputs of ozone and the zone perturbation scenarios was investigated by computing the residual circulation from three sets of heating rates (used in computing the advection field). The model ozone results were compared to solar backscattered UV ozone data (SBUV). It was found that, depending on the dynamical inputs, the modeled global average total ozone varied up to 10 percent (with even more substantial seasonal and latitudinal variabilities), indicating that total ozone in the middle to high latitudes is very sensitive to the advection field below 100 mbar, the region where the heating rates are most uncertain. The modeled total ozone showed better agreement with solar SBUV climatology when computed horizontal eddy diffusion was used.

Jackman, Charles H.↗

A new electronic scanner of pressure designed for installation in wind-tunnel models

A new electronic scanner of pressure (ESOP) has been developed by NASA Ames Research Center for installation in wind-tunnel models. An ESOP system includes up to 20 pressure modules, each with 48 pressure transducers, an A/D converter, a microprocessor, a data controller, a monitor unit, and a heater controller. The system is sized so that the pressure modules and A/D converter module can be installed within an average-size model tested in the Ames Aerodynamics Division wind tunnels. This paper describes the ESOP system, emphasizing the main element of the system - the pressure module. The measured performance of the overall system is also presented.

Coe, C. T.↗

Titan's Plasma Environment : 3D Hybrid Kinetic Modeling of the TA Flyby and Comparison with CAPS-ELS and RPWS LP Observations

In this report we discuss the global plasma environment of the TA flyby from the perspective of 3D hybrid modeling. In our model the background, pickup, and ionospheric ions are considered as particles, whereas the electrons are described as a fluid. In homogeneous photoionization, electron-impact ionization and charge exchange are included in our model. We also take into account the collisions between the ions and neutrals. Our modeling shows that mass loading of the background plasma (H(+), O(+)) by pick up ions H2(+), CH4(+) and N2(+) differs from theT9 encounter simulations when O(+) ions are not introduced into the background plasma. In our hybrid-modeling we use Chamberlain profiles for the atmospheric components. We also include a simple ionosphere model with average mass M=28 amu ions that were generated inside the ionosphere. Titan's interior is considered as a weakly conducting body. Special attention has been paid to comparing the simulated pickup ion density distribution with CAPS-ELS and with RPWS LP observations by the Cassini-Huygens spacecraft along theta trajectory. Our modeling shows an asymmetry of the ion density distribution and the magnetic field, including the formation of Alfven wing-like structures.

induced magnetospheres↗

Mapping Vinyl Cyanide and Other Nitriles in Titan's Atmosphere Using ALMA

Vinyl cyanide (C2H3CN) is theorized to form in Titan's atmosphere via high-altitude photochemistry and is of interest regarding the astrobiology of cold planetary surfaces due to its predicted ability to form cell membrane-like structures (azotosomes) in liquid methane. In this work, we follow up on the initial spectroscopic detection of C2H3CN on Titan by Palmer et al. with the detection of three new C2H3CN rotational emission lines at submillimeter frequencies. These new, high-resolution detections have allowed for the first spatial distribution mapping of C2H3CN on Titan. We present simultaneous observations of C2H5CN, HC3N, and CH3CN emission, and obtain the first (tentative) detection of C3H8 (propane) at radio wavelengths. We present disk-averaged vertical abundance profiles, two-dimensional spatial maps, and latitudinal flux profiles for the observed nitriles. Similarly to HC3N and C2H5CN, which are theorized to be short-lived in Titan's atmosphere, C2H3CN is most abundant over the southern (winter) pole, whereas the longer-lived CH3CN is more concentrated in the north. This abundance pattern is consistent with the combined effects of high-altitude photochemical production, poleward advection, and the subsequent reversal of Titan's atmospheric circulation system following the recent transition from northern to southern winter. We confirm that C2H3CN and C2H5CN are most abundant at altitudes above 200 km. Using a 300 km step model, the average abundance of C2H3CN is found to be 3.03 +/- 0.29ppb, with a C2H5CN/C2H3CN abundance ratio of 2.43 +/- 0.26. Our HC3N and CH3CN spectra can be accurately modeled using abundance gradients above the tropopause, with fractional scale-heights of 2.05 +/- 0.16 and 1.63 +/- 0.02, respectively.

Lai, J. C.-Y.↗

Cycle-averaged dynamics of a periodically driven, closed-loop circulation model

Time-varying elastance models have been used extensively in the past to simulate the pulsatile nature of cardiovascular waveforms. Frequently, however, one is interested in dynamics that occur over longer time scales, in which case a detailed simulation of each cardiac contraction becomes computationally burdensome. In this paper, we apply circuit-averaging techniques to a periodically driven, closed-loop, three-compartment recirculation model. The resultant cycle-averaged model is linear and time invariant, and greatly reduces the computational burden. It is also amenable to systematic order reduction methods that lead to further efficiencies. Despite its simplicity, the averaged model captures the dynamics relevant to the representation of a range of cardiovascular reflex mechanisms. c2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Non-NASA Center↗

Numerical study of twin-jet impingement upwash flow

Two horizontally spaced jets impinging normally on a flat surface create a fountain upwash flow due to the collision of the radially flowing wall jets. This fountain flow is of importance to the dynamics and propulsion of STOVL aircraft. The fountain flow influences the lift forces on the aircraft and the ingestion of hot gases and debris by the engine inlet. In this paper, a multigrid based finite-difference numerical procedure has been applied to solve the equations governing this three-dimensional flow. The standard k-epsilon turbulence model has been used. Comparisons with experimental data reveal that while the mean velocities are predicted with reasonable accuracy, the turbulent kinetic energies are seriously in error. The reasons for this discrepancy could be the intense unsteadiness and large-scale structures of the flow in the near-wall region, which cannot be captured well by any Reynolds-averaged turbulence model.

Pegues, W. J.↗

Development and Implementation of an Empirical Ionosphere Variability Model

Spacecraft designers and operations support personnel involved in space environment analysis for low Earth orbit missions require ionospheric specification and forecast models that provide not only average ionospheric plasma parameters for a given set of geophysical conditions but the statistical variations about the mean as well. This presentation describes the development of a prototype empirical model intended for use with the International Reference Ionosphere (IRI) to provide ionospheric Ne and Te variability. We first describe the database of on-orbit observations from a variety of spacecraft and ground based radars over a wide range of latitudes and altitudes used to obtain estimates of the environment variability. Next, comparison of the observations with the IRI model provide estimates of the deviations from the average model as well as the range of possible values that may correspond to a given IRI output. Options for implementation of the statistical variations in software that can be run with the IRI model are described. Finally, we provide example applications including thrust estimates for tethered satellites and specification of sunrise Ne, Te conditions required to support spacecraft charging issues for satellites with high voltage solar arrays.

Minow, Joesph I.↗

Queuing theory models for computer networks

A set of simple queuing theory models which can model the average response of a network of computers to a given traffic load has been implemented using a spreadsheet. The impact of variations in traffic patterns and intensities, channel capacities, and message protocols can be assessed using them because of the lack of fine detail in the network traffic rates, traffic patterns, and the hardware used to implement the networks. A sample use of the models applied to a realistic problem is included in appendix A. Appendix B provides a glossary of terms used in this paper. This Ames Research Center computer communication network is an evolving network of local area networks (LANs) connected via gateways and high-speed backbone communication channels. Intelligent planning of expansion and improvement requires understanding the behavior of the individual LANs as well as the collection of networks as a whole.

Galant, David C.↗

Global Kinetic Modeling of Banded Electron Structures in the Plasmasphere

Significant fluxes of 10 eV to 30 keV electrons have been detected in the plasmasphere, appearing as banded structures in energy with broad spatial extents and slowly evolving over several days. It is thought that these populations are decaying plasma sheet electrons injected into the corotating region of near-Earth space. This capture can occur when the convective electric field drops rapidly and the Alfven boundary suddenly outward, trapping the inner edge of the plasma sheet along closed drift paths. Our bounce-averaged kinetic model of superthermal electron transport is able to simulate this capture and the subsequent drift, diffusion, and decay of the plasma cloud. Results of this simulation will be shown and discussed, from the initial injection during the elevated convection to the final loss of the particles. It is thought that not only Coulomb collisions but also wave-particle interactions play a significant role in altering the plasma cloud. Quasilinear diffusion is currently being incorporated into the model and the importance of this mechanism will be examined. Also, the high anisotropy of the trapped population could be unstable and generate plasma waves. These and other processes will be investigated to determine the final fate of the cloud and to quantify where, how, and when the energy of the plasma cloud is deposited. Comparisons with CRRES observations of these events are shown to verify the model and explain the data.

Liemohn, M. W.↗