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At least 307 records · Page 17

Standard Practices for Usage of Inductive Magnetic Field Probes with Application to Electric Propulsion Testing

Inductive magnetic field probes (also known as B-dot probes and sometimes as B-probes or magnetic probes) are often employed to perform field measurements in electric propulsion applications where there are time-varying fields. Magnetic field probes provide the means to measure these magnetic fields and can even be used to measure the plasma current density indirectly through the application of Ampere's law. Measurements of this type can yield either global information related to a thruster and its performance or detailed, local data related to the specific physical processes occurring in the plasma. Results of the development of a standard for B-dot probe measurements are presented, condensing the available literature on the subject into an accessible set of rules, guidelines, and techniques to standardize the performance and presentation of future measurements.

Polzin, Kurt A.↗

Recent Projects in the KSC Applied Physics Lab

Topics include: Shuttle heritage; ISRU /RESOLVE: a) Payload for Lunar Lander/Rover on Polar Areas of Moon. b) Avionics/Software. New Technologies for Exploration: a) Radiation Shielding work. b) Cooperative Tractor Beams.

Starr, Stanley↗

TOI-3568 b: A Super-Neptune in the Sub-Jovian Desert

The sub-Jovian desert is a region in the mass–period and radius–period parameter space that typically encompasses short-period ranges between super-Earths and hot Jupiters, and exhibits an intrinsic dearth of planets. This scarcity is likely shaped by photo evaporation caused by the stellar irradiation received by giant planets that have migrated inward. We report the detection and characterization ofTOI-3568 b, a transiting super-Neptune with a mass of26.4±1.0M⊕, a radius of5.30±0.27R⊕, a bulk density of0.98±0.15g cm−3, and an orbital period of 4.417965 (5) d situated in the vicinity of the sub-Jovian desert. This planet orbiting a K dwarf star with solar metallicity was identified photometrically by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). It was characterized as a planet by our high-precision radial-velocity (RV) monitoring program using MAROON-X at Gemini North, supplemented with additional observations from the SPICE large program with SPIRou at CFHT. We performed a Bayesian MCMC joint analysis of the TESSand ground-based photometry, and MAROON-X and SPIRou RVs, to measure the orbit, radius, and mass of the planet, as well as a detailed analysis of the high-resolution flux and polarimetric spectra to determine the physical parameters and elemental abundances of the host star. Our results reveal TOI-3568 b to be a hot super-Neptune rich in hydrogen and helium, with a core of heavier elements of between 10 and 25 M⊕in mass. We analyzed the photo evaporation status of TOI-3568 b and find that it experiences one of the highest extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) luminosities among planets with a mass of Mp<2MNep, yet it has an evaporation lifetime exceeding 5 Gyr. Positioned in the transition between two significant populations of exoplanets on the mass–period and energy diagrams, this planet presents an opportunity to test theories concerning the origin of the sub-Jovian desert.

stars: individual: TOI-3568↗

Astronomy satellites in the U.S. program

The Orbiting Astronomical Observatory (OAO) series demonstrated that necessary thermal control systems and high pointing stability are feasible on astronomical satellites. A geosynchronous International Ultraviolet Explorer (IUE) is being planned by the US, UK, and ESRO for stellar spectroscopy. High Energy Astronomy Observatories, HEAO-A B, and C, will concentrate on stellar X-ray objects, cosmic ray physics, and gamma ray astronomy. A Shuttle-compatible Solar Maximum Mission (SMM) is planned for studying solar flares and flare related phenomena during the next solar maximum. Now in the instrumentation definition stage is the Large Space Telescope (LST), to provide higher resolution and sensitivity, larger wavelength range (from ultraviolet to far infrared), and higher time resolution than ground-based telescopes.

Aucremanne, M. J.↗

Shuttle Imaging Radar: A/B sensors

The exciting discoveries of the Shuttle Imaging Radar-A (SIR-A) experiment prompted a refly of the instrument to be designated the Shuttle Imaging Radar-B. The SIR-B instrument will reuse the hardware flown for the SIR-A mission and add some interesting refinements. The two radar sensors are described in detail. The SIR-A and SIR-B instruments are both tailored for use on the Space Shuttle. They are physically configured to fit in the Shuttle's payload bay, are powered and cooled by shuttle systems, are controlled by the crew or from the ground, and record data on board or beam it to the ground using the orbiter's data links. The radars are designed to accommodate a range of orbiter altitudes and have built in operating modes to cover a wide variety of mission objectives. The flexibility and utility of these radars make them ideal, cost effective instruments for research in the Space Shuttle environment.

Granger, J. L.↗

Thermal Emission Spectra of Phobos, Vesta, Ceres, and Pallas: A Comparison

Ultraviolet, visual, and near-infrared spectra of Phobos, obtained by Mariner 9 and Viking Orbiters, were interpreted to suggest a compositional similarity with carbonaceous chrondrites. Such a composition would be inconsistent with the moon's origin in the proto-Mars region, as Mars is composed chiefly of differentiated silicates. This interpretation was used to suggest that the moons originated in the main-asteroid belt, with subsequent capture and orbital evolution into their current locations. Interpretations of more recent visual and near-infrared spectra, obtained by Phobos-2 and Mars Pathfinder, have demonstrated that the Phobos spectrum is more similar to spectra of other classes of asteroids and lunar soils. If lunar mare soil is the correct analogy, then such a composition suggests a formation of Phobos from materials similar to that on Mars, i.e. basalts, and would not require a dynamically difficult capture and orbital evolution. During the science phasing orbits of the Mars Global Surveyor mission Thermal Emission Spectrometer (TES) observations of Phobos were acquired at each of four encounters. The spectral variability observed for localized surface regions on Phobos has been previously reported and is greatest near the northern wall of Stickney crater. Interpretation of the thermal infrared spectra of airless bodies, based upon most existing laboratory measurements, is complicated by the absence of interstitial gases on the celestial objects that would act to minimize potential thermal gradients in the upper layers of the surface. As an aid to interpretation of the TES Phobos spectra are compared to telescopic and airborne thermal infrared spectra of asteroids from several classes, including Ceres (G), Pallas (B), and Vesta (V). The asteroid spectra provide a direct analogy to the physical situation encountered at the surface of Phobos, albeit different thermal gradients may exist for each surface. This work is supported by NASA RTOP's 344-30-30-01 and 344-34-21-08.

Roush, Ted↗

The Effects of Implementing TopModel Concepts in the Noah Model

Topographic effects on runoff generation have been documented observationally (e.g., Dunne and Black, 1970) and are the subject of the physically based rainfall-runoff model TOPMODEL (Beven and Kirkby, 1979; Beven, 1986a;b) and its extensions, which incorporate variable soil transmissivity effects (Sivapalan et al, 1987, Wood et al., 1988; 1990). These effects have been shown to exert significant control over the spatial distribution of runoff, soil moisture and evapotranspiration, and by extension, the latent and sensible heat fluxes

Peters-Lidard, C. D.↗

Interface Anywhere: Development of a Voice and Gesture System for Spaceflight Operations

The Interface Anywhere Project was funded through Innovation Charge Account (ICA) at NASA JSC in the Fall of 2012. The project was collaboration between human factors and engineering to explore the possibility of designing an interface to control basic habitat operations through gesture and voice control; (a) Current interfaces require the users to be physically near an input device in order to interact with the system; and (b) By using voice and gesture commands, the user is able to interact with the system anywhere they want within the work environment.

Thompson, Shelby↗

Hybrid Kinetic Modeling of the Magnetosheath Impulsive Plasma Cloud Penetration Through the Magnetopause and Comparison with MMS and Other Spacecraft Observations

This research examines the plasma processes under penetration of the plasma clouds (plasmoids) across the magnetopause which is modeled as a tangential discontinuity (TD). Cases with the parallel magnetic field in both sides out of the TD are under investigation. Plasma parameters and magnetic field were chosen from the MMS mission and other spacecraft observations. The results are important for understanding the following basic space plasma physics problems: (a) plasma cloud deformation and strong phase mixing with magnetospheric plasma; (b) the transfer of mass, momentum and energy of magnetosheath and magnetic cloud plasma into magnetospheric plasmas; (c) necessary conditions for plasma cloud penetration via the magnetopause; (d) wave generation by plasma clouds inside the magnetopause.

A S Lipatov↗

Space Physics Cosmic & Heliospheric Data Evaluation Panel Report

This Cosmic and Heliospheric (C&H) Data Evaluation Panel was charged with the task of identifying and prioritizing important C&H data sets. It was requested to provide C&H community input to the Space Physics Division for a program of revitalizing data holdings. Details and recommendations are provided. Highest C&H priority is assigned to Voyager, Pioneer, Helios, IMP-8, and ISEE-3 data.

Cosmic Heliospheric Data Archive Preservation Spac↗

Prospects for Inflationary B-Mode Detection

Measurements of the linear polarization of the cosmic microwave background provide a direct window into the physics of inflation. The experimental challenges are daunting: not only is the predicted signal faint compared to the photon noise limit, but it is hidden behind competing foregrounds from both local and cosmic sources. I will discuss the experimental response to these challenges and the prospects for eventual detection and characterization of the inflationary signal.

Kogut, Alan J.↗

Experimental Studies of Low-Pressure Turbine Flows and Flow Control. Streamwise Pressure Profiles and Velocity Profiles

This report summarizes research performed in support of the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) Low-Pressure Turbine (LPT) Flow Physics Program. The work was performed experimentally at the U.S. Naval Academy faculties. The geometry corresponded to "Pak B" LPT airfoil. The test section simulated LPT flow in a passage. Three experimental studies were performed: (a) Boundary layer measurements for ten baseline cases under high and low freestream turbulence conditions at five Reynolds numbers of 25,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, and 300,000, based on passage exit velocity and suction surface wetted length; (b) Passive flow control studies with three thicknesses of two-dimensional bars, and two heights of three-dimensional circular cylinders with different spanwise separations, at same flow conditions as the 10 baseline cases; (c) Active flow control with oscillating synthetic (zero net mass flow) vortex generator jets, for one case with low freestream turbulence and a low Reynolds number of 25,000. The Passive flow control was successful at controlling the separation problem at low Reynolds numbers, with varying degrees of success from case to case and varying levels of impact at higher Reynolds numbers. The active flow control successfully eliminated the large separation problem for the low Reynolds number case. Very detailed data was acquired using hot-wire anemometry, including single and two velocity components, integral boundary layer quantities, turbulence statistics and spectra, turbulent shear stresses and their spectra, and intermittency, documenting transition, separation and reattachment. Models were constructed to correlate the results. The report includes a summary of the work performed and reprints of the publications describing the various studies.This report summarizes research performed in support of the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC) Low-Pressure Turbine (LPT) Flow Physics Program. The work was performed experimentally at the U.S. Naval Academy faculties. The geometry corresponded to "Pak B" LPT airfoil. The test section simulated LPT flow in a passage. Three experimental studies were performed: (a) Boundary layer measurements for ten baseline cases under high and low freestream turbulence conditions at five Reynolds numbers of 25,000, 50,000, 100,000, 200,000, and 300,000, based on passage exit velocity and suction surface wetted length; (b) Passive flow control studies with three thicknesses of two-dimensional bars, and two heights of three-dimensional circular cylinders with different spanwise separations, at same flow conditions as the 10 baseline cases; (c) Active flow control with oscillating synthetic (zero net mass flow) vortex generator jets, for one case with low freestream turbulence and a low Reynolds number of 25,000. The Passive flow control was successful at controlling the separation problem at low Reynolds numbers, with varying degrees of success from case to case and varying levels of impact at higher Reynolds numbers. The active flow control successfully eliminated the large separation problem for the low Reynolds number case. Very detailed data was acquired using hot-wire anemometry, including single and two velocity components, integral boundary layer quantities, turbulence statistics and spectra, turbulent shear stresses and their spectra, and intermittency, documenting transition, separation and reattachment. Models were constructed to correlate the results. The report includes a summary of the work performed and reprints of the publications describing the various studies. The folders in this supplement contain processed data in ASCII format. Streamwise pressure profiles and velocity profiles are included. The velocity profiles were acquired using single sensor and cross sensor hot-wire probes which were traversed from the wall to the freestream at various streamwise locations. In some of the flow control cases (3D Trips and Jets) profiles were acquired at multiple spanwise locations.

Volino, Ralph↗

Analyses for precision reduced optical observations from the international satellite geodesy experiment (ISAGEX)

During the time period of December 1970 to September 1971 an International Satllite Geodesy Experiment (ISAGEX) was conducted. Over fifty optical and laser tracking stations participated in the data gathering portion of this experiment. Data from some of the stations had not been previously available for dynamical orbit computations. With the recent availability of new data from the Astrosoviet, East European and other optical stations, orbital analyses were conducted to insure compatibility with the previously available laser data. These data have also been analyzed using dynamical orbital techniques for the estimation of estimation of geocentric coordinates for six camera stations (for Astrosoviet, two East European). Thirteen arcs of GEOS-1 and 2 observations between two and four days in length were used. The uncertainty in these new station values is considered to be about 20 meters in each coordinate. Adjustments to the previously available values were generally a few hundred meters. With these geocentric coordinates these data will now be used to supplement earth physics investigations during the ISAGEX.

Marsh, J. G.↗

Arc structure in Saturn's radio dynamic spectra

It is pointed out that one of the most spectacular findings of the Voyager 1 planetary radio astronomy experiment (PRA) was the discovery of nested arc-like structures in the dynamic spectra of Jupiter's decametric emission. These arcs have curvature in either a direction towards increasing or decreasing time. Similar arc structures are also evident in Saturn kilometric radiation. These structures appear superimposed on the strong intensity modulation which is controlled by the rotation of the planet and on fast and narrow band fluctuations which give a very large variability to the PRA observations on a 6-s, 20-kHz scale. The characteristics of the arcs are examined and compared with the arc structure in Jupiter. The similarities between Saturn's and Jupiter's arc structures are found to imply that they are probably due to the same physical mechanism.

Boischot, A.↗

Redistribution of radiation for the wings of Lyman-alpha

Earlier work on redistribution of radiation by collisions for isolated lines is extended to overlapping lines, and an explicit expression for the frequency redistribution is given for Lyman-alpha. This expression is valid, even when the emitted photon is in the (non-impact) line wings. A simple physical explanation of the result is possible.

Yelnik, J.-B.↗

Spacecraft Dynamics as Related to Laboratory Experiments in Space

Proceedings are presented of a conference sponsored by the Physics and Chemistry Experiments in Space Working Group to discuss the scientific and engineering aspects involved in the design and performance of reduced to zero gravity experiments affected by spacecraft environments and dynamics. The dynamics of drops, geophysical fluids, and superfluid helium are considered as well as two phase flow, combustion, and heat transfer. Interactions between spacecraft motions and the atmospheric cloud physics laboratory experiments are also examined.

G. H. Fichtl↗