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At least 235 records · Page 13
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1984

Near field to far field transformations and multiple beam forming and steering

The feasibility of acoustic verification of microwave near field to far field transformation algorithms using the Phased Array Sonic Simulation System was studied. Existing electromagnetic near field measurement techniques and transformation algorithms (equations) were investigated. It was analytically determined that acoustic verification is valid. Acoustic simulation of electromagnetic near field to far field transformations is emphasized. The acoustic simulation of electromagnetic near field to far field transformation is verified for the modal expansion method. In the modal expansion method, data from antenna near field measurements are converted to a summation or spectrum of modes corresponding to wave numbers in the measurement coordinate system. Fourier transformation of those measurements preserves the far field information in a spectral form that is then readily extractable.

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NASA NTRS1985

Electronically Steered Thinned Array Radiometer (ESTAR) system design, calibration, and sensitivity

The ESTAR system, an imaging L-band radiometer designed to provide measurements of soil moisture from space, is described. The large aperture size dictated by the resolution requirement (10 km or less) suggests the use of aperture synthesis, and plans to have ESTAR operate in low earth orbit require that the synthesis be performed in the short data acquisition time permitted by satellite motion. Two forms of ESTAR are described. ESTAR-0 is to be an airborne prototype designed for proof of concept; it will image a line of eight adjacent pixels with 8 degree spatial resolution of 0.1 degree Kelvin temperature resolution, given 1 sec integration time. ESTAR-1 is the satellite version to operate from space. A tentative sensor design will image a line of 128 0.5 degree pixels with 2.0 degree K resolution assuming 0.7 sec integration at 700 km altitude.

Ruf, C.↗
NASA NTRS1986

The Electronically Steered Thinned Array Radiometer (ESTAR)

The concept of a thinned array radiometer is described as an alternate to large filled apertures to achieve high resolution imaging from space. The serious limitations of conventional mechanical scanning systems and the practical problems associated with a multiple receiver pushbroom system that utilizes a large antenna are discussed. The thinned array is developed in terms of aperture synthesis techniques used in radio astronomy. Examples of thinned array configurations are presented, and future directions are discussed.

Swift, C. T.↗
NASA NTRS1987

From pattern to process: The strategy of the Earth Observing System: Volume 2: EOS Science Steering Committee report

The Earth Observing System (EOS) represents a new approach to the study of the Earth. It consists of remotely sensed and correlative in situ observations designed to address important, interrelated global-scale processes. There is an urgent need to study the Earth as a complete, integrated system in order to understand and predict changes caused by human activities and natural processes. The EOS approach is based on an information system concept and designed to provide a long-term study of the Earth using a variety of measurement methods from both operational and research satellite payloads and continuing ground-based Earth science studies. The EOS concept builds on the foundation of the earlier, single-discipline space missions designed for relatively short observation periods. Continued progress in our understanding of the Earth as a system will come from EOS observations spanning several decades using a variety of contemporaneous measurements.

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NASA NTRS1988

MSAT mobile electronically steered phased array antenna development

The Mobile Satellite Experiment (MSAT-X) breadboard antenna design demonstrates the feasibility of using a phased array in a mobile satellite application. An electronically steerable phased array capable of tracking geosynchronous satellites from anywhere in the Continental United States has been developed. The design is reviewed along with the test data. Cost analysis are presented which indicate that this design can be produced at a cost of $1620 per antenna.

Schmidt, Fred↗
NASA NTRS1988

An approach to CMG steering using feedback linearization

This paper presents an approach for controlling spacecraft equipped with control moment gyroscopes. A technique from feedback linearization theory is used to transform the original nonlinear problem to an equivalent linear form without approximating assumptions. In this form, the spacecraft dynamics appear linearly, and are decoupled from redundancy in the system of gyroscopes. A general approach to distributing control effort among the available actuators is described which includes provisions for redistribution of rotors, explicit bounds in gimbal rates, and guaranteed operation at or near singular configurations. A particular algorithm is developed for systems of double-gimbal devices, and demonstrated in two examples for which existing approaches fail to give adequate performance.

Dzielski, John↗
NASA NTRS1987

The electronically steered thinned array radiometer

An L-band radiometer which allows global imaging of soil moisture from LEO is discussed. The system consists of an array of antennas with amplifiers, a device to cross-correlate the signals from the antennas, and a process to translate the resulting data into an image of brightness temperature over the field of view. The process is based on a Fourier transform relation that exists between the incident electric field strength as a function of incidence angle and electric fields across the aperture plane of the antenna. The system's image reconstruction technique and signal-to-noise performance are examined.

Ruf, C. S.↗
NASA NTRS1991

Approach to control moment gyroscope steering using feedback linearization

This paper presents an approach for controlling spacecraft equipped with control moment gyroscopes. A technique from feedback linearization theory is used to transform the original nonlinear problem to an equivalent linear form without approximating assumptions. In this form, the spacecraft dynamics appear linearly, and are decoupled from redundancy in the system of gyroscopes. A general approach to distributing control effort among the available actuators is described which includes provisions for redistribution of rotors, explicit bounds in gimbal rates, and guaranteed operation at or near singular configurations. A particular algorithm is developed for systems of double-gimbal devices, and demonstrated in two examples for which existing approaches fail to give adequate performance.

Dzielski, John↗
NASA NTRS1991

Recent proceedings of the NASA Steering Committee on Simulator Induced Sickness

The reports, research updates, and discussion topics presented at the third (1990) and fourth (1991) meetings of the Committee, comprising experts from the U.S., the U.K., and Canada, are briefly summarized. A number of interim solutions to the problem of simulator-induced sickness are suggested, including reducing global visual flow, shortening simulation duration, reducing the amount of maneuvering, repeating sessions to allow pilot adaptation, and eliminating spatial and temporal distortions.

Mccauley, Michael E.↗
NASA NTRS1992

CCD With Back-Side Illumination And Charge Steering

Proposed charge-coupled device (CCD) imaging array of photodetectors has features of back-side-illuminated CCD and interline-transfer CCD. Photoelectrons generated near back surface and swept by electric fields toward front into collecting potential wells, not directly opposite that location. By suitable timing of control signals, charges from multiple image frames stored in rapid succession. Useful in imaging rapid transient phenomena as chemically reacting flows, with interframe intervals of microseconds.

Fossum, Eric R.↗
NASA NTRS1990

Performance of a family of omni and steered antennas for mobile satellite applications

The design and performance of a family of vehicle antennas developed at JPL in support of an emerging US Mobile Satellite Service (MSS) system are described. Test results of the antennas are presented. Trends for future development are addressed. Recommendations on design approaches for vehicle antennas of the first generation MSS are discussed.

Woo, K.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Software Surface Modeling and Grid Generation Steering Committee

It is a NASA objective to promote improvements in the capability and efficiency of computational fluid dynamics. Grid generation, the creation of a discrete representation of the solution domain, is an essential part of computational fluid dynamics. However, grid generation about complex boundaries requires sophisticated surface-model descriptions of the boundaries. The surface modeling and the associated computation of surface grids consume an extremely large percentage of the total time required for volume grid generation. Efficient and user friendly software systems for surface modeling and grid generation are critical for computational fluid dynamics to reach its potential. The papers presented here represent the state-of-the-art in software systems for surface modeling and grid generation. Several papers describe improved techniques for grid generation.

Smith, Robert E.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Steering A Radar Beam Toward The Zero-Doppler Line

Algorithm computes angles needed to aim radar beam from airborne or spaceborne platform toward Doppler line projected on ground for which Doppler shift of radar return is zero. Devised to reduce Doppler errors and simplify processing of data from synthetic-aperture-radar system. Applicable to aiming of other radio or optical instruments toward their zero-Doppler lines on ground.

Chang, Chi-Yung↗
NASA NTRS1994

Recommended techniques for effective maintainability. A continuous improvement initiative of the NASA Reliability and Maintainability Steering Committee

This manual presents a series of recommended techniques that can increase overall operational effectiveness of both flight and ground based NASA systems. It provides a set of tools that minimizes risk associated with: (1) restoring failed functions (both ground and flight based); (2) conducting complex and highly visible maintenance operations; and (3) sustaining a technical capability to support the NASA mission using aging equipment or facilities. It considers (1) program management - key elements of an effective maintainability effort; (2) design and development - techniques that have benefited previous programs; (3) analysis and test - quantitative and qualitative analysis processes and testing techniques; and (4) operations and operational design techniques that address NASA field experience. This document is a valuable resource for continuous improvement ideas in executing the systems development process in accordance with the NASA 'better, faster, smaller, and cheaper' goal without compromising safety.

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NASA NTRS1961

Project Echo: Antenna Steering System

The Project Echo communications experiment employed large, steerable,transmitting and receiving antennas at the ground terminals. It was necessary that these highly directional antennas be continuously and accurately pointed at the passing satellite. This paper describes a new type of special purpose data converter for directing narrow-beam communication antennas on the basis of predicted information. The system is capable of converting digital input data into real-time analog voltage commands with a dynamic accuracy of +/- 0.05 degree, which meets the requirements of the present antennas.

Klahn, R.↗