Engineering Papers⌕ Search

SEARCH · Engineering Papers

Results for “time source”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 343 records · Page 19
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1985

Use of simultaneous radionuclide and other trace constituent measurements to determine fluxes and atmospheric residence times

Finding a way to use atmospheric concentrations to determine source strengths and atmospheric residence times pose considerable difficulties. An approach is to use simultaneously measured radionuclide concentrations as a means of deriving fluxes and residence times for certain atmospheric trace constituents of interest. The study and use of such methods in a pilot field experiment were among the original goals of this program. Four such approaches were studied or developed; suitable sampling and analysis systems were built and tested or are in the final stages of construction; and a small scale field experiment. The evolution is reviewed of the program and the field experiment is described along with the possibilities for its eventual extension to include other species of interest. The four radionuclide based approaches studied are: Mean vertical profiles; Trajectory correlation; Boundary layer discontinuity; and Lead deposition.

Kritz, Mark↗
NASA NTRS2011

The 5 Hour Pulse Period and Broadband Spectrum of the Symbiotic X-Ray Binary 3A 1954+319

We present an analysis of the highly variable accreting X-ray pulsar 3A 1954+319 using 2005-2009 monitoring data obtained with INTEGRAL and Swift. This considerably extends the pulse period history and covers flaring episodes in 2005 and 2008. In 2006 the source was identified as one of only a few known symbiotic X-ray binaries, Le" systems composed of a neutron star accreting from the inhomogeneous medium around an M-giant star. The extremely long pulse period of approximately 5.3 h is directly visible in the 2008 INTEGRAL-ISGRI outburst light curve. The pulse profile is double peaked and not significantly energy dependent. During the outburst a strong spin-up of -1.8 x 10(exp -4) h h(exp -1) occurred. Between 2005 and 2008 a long term spin-down trend of 2.1 x 10(exp -5) h h(exp -1) was observed for the first time for this source. The 3-80 keV pulse peak spectrum of 3A 1954+319 during the 2008 flare could be well described by a thermal Comptonization model. We interpret the results within the framework of a recently developed quasi-spherical accretion model for symbiotic X-ray binaries.

Marcu, Diana M.↗
NASA NTRS1977

All-Sky Monitor observations of the decay of A0620-00 /Nova Monocerotis 1975/

The All-Sky X-ray Monitor on board Ariel-5 has observed the 3-6 keV decline of the bright transient X-ray source A0620-00 on a virtually continuous basis during the period 1975 September-1976 March. The source behavior on time scales greater than about 100 minutes is characterized by smooth, exponential decays interrupted by substantial increases in October and February. The latter increase was an order-of-magnitude rise above the extrapolated exponential falloff, and was followed by a final rapid decline below a level of about 0.05 per sq cm per sec by late March. Upper limits of 2.5% and 10% were found for any periodicities in the range 0.2-10 days during the early and later decay phases, respectively. A probable correlation between the optical and 3-6 keV emission from A0620-00 has been noted, effectively ruling out models involving traditional optical novae in favor of Roche-lobe overflow in a binary system. The existing data on the transient X-ray sources are consistent with two distinct luminosity-lifetime classes of these objects.

Kaluzienski, L. J.↗
NASA NTRS1995

Numerical Simulations of High Enthalpy Pulse Facilities

Axisymmetric flows within shock tubes and expansion tubes are simulated including the effects of finite rate chemistry and both laminar and turbulent boundary layers. The simulations demonstrate the usefulness of computational fluid dynamics for characterizing the flows in high enthalpy pulse facilities. The modeling and numerical requirements necessary to simulate these flows accurately are also discussed. Although there is a large body of analysis which explains and quantifies the boundary layer growth between the shock and the interface in a shock tube, there is a need for more detailed solutions. Phenomena such as thermochemical nonequilibrium. or turbulent transition behind the shock are excluded in the assumptions of Mirels' analysis. Additionally there is inadequate capability to predict the influence of the boundary layer on the expanded gas behind the interface. Quantifying the gas in this region is particularly important in expansion tubes because it is the location of the test gas. Unsteady simulations of the viscous flow in shock tubes are computationally expensive because they must follow features such as a shock wave over the length of the facility and simultaneously resolve the small length scales within the boundary layer. As a result, efficient numerical algorithms are required. The numerical approach of the present work is to solve the axisymmetric gas dynamic equations using an finite-volume formulation where the inviscid fluxes are computed with a upwind TVD scheme. Multiple species equations are included in the formulation so that finite-rate chemistry can be modeled. The simulations cluster grid points at the shock and interface and translate this clustered grid with these features to minimize numerical errors. The solutions are advanced at a CFL number of less than one based on the inviscid gas dynamics. To avoid limitations on the time step due to the viscous terms, these terms are treated implicitly. This requires a block tri-diagonal matrix inversion along each line of cells normal to the wall. The cost of this inversion is more than offset by the larger allowable time step. The source terms representing the finite-rate chemical kinetics are also treated implicitly. An algebraic turbulence model for compressible flow is used. The flow in a low pressure shock tube is computed and the results are compared with Mirels'analysis. The driven gas is nitrogen at 70 Pa, and the incident shock speed is approximately 2.9 km/sec so that there is little dissociation. The simulations include a laminar boundary layer and are run until the limiting flow regime is achieved. At this limit, the shock and interface travel at the same velocity because the amount of driven gas between these two features remains the same: the mass flow across the shock is equal to the mass of gas being entrained at the interface by the boundary layer. Simulations with several grids are presented to establish the grid independence of the solution, Good agreement is achieved between Mirels' correlations and the computations. This is expected since the flow conditions are chosen to be consistent with the assumptions used in Mirels' analysis. This comparison adds credibility to the numerical approach and highlights some of the differences between the theory and the detailed simulations. In addition, simulations of the HYPULSE expansion tube are presented for two operating conditions and the computations are compared to experimental data. The operating gas for both cases is nitrogen. One test condition is at a total enthalpy of 15.2 MJ/Kg and a relatively low pressure of 2 kPa. This case is characterized by a laminar boundary layer and significant chemical nonequilibrium. in the acceleration gas. The second test condition is at a total enthalpy of 10.2 MJ/Kg and a pressure of 38 kPa and is characterized by a turbulent boundary layer. The simulations compare well with experiment and reveal that the nonuniformity in pressure observed during the test time is related to variations in the boundary layer displacement thickness.

Wilson, Gregory J.↗
NASA NTRSDate not supplied

Modeling Methods for 3D Lightning Mapping from Space

Global lightning detection has advanced greatly over the past few decades both on ground and from orbit. Ground-based systems like the Lightning Mapping Array (LMA) excel at high-precision 3D reconstruction of local flashes, while spaceborne lightning sensors have much larger potential coverage but are limited by coarser resolution and often rely on data from other instruments to determine 3D flash locations. CubeSpark is a new mission concept focused on combining these two methods in the form of six small satellites in low-Earth orbit. CubeSpark will combine RF and bispectral optical measurements of lightning in order to map the 3D structure of both individual flashes and their parent thunderstorms at 1-2 km spatial resolution on a global scale, enabling a host of new atmospheric, climate, and space electricity studies. The goal of this study is to assess the feasibility and expected resolution of lightning mapping via indivudal VHF sources using different methods and detector combinations. Flashes were simulated beneath orbital configurations consisting of 1-6 satellites, taking into account the complicated interactions with Earth's ionosphere. In the multi-satellite (>5) approach, RF detectors on each satellite measure the arrival times of impulsive VHF sources to collectively pinpoint their locations in 3D and reconstruct flashes with higher resolution than has been achieved from space. The same can process can be performed with 3-4 satellites by constraining sources' horizontal locations with onboard optical imagers. A 1-2 station approach follows the established method of determining the height of an RF source using the arrival time difference between direct RF waves and their reflections off the Earth's surface. Here we present preliminary results of the expected accuracy of these methods to inform potential satellite missions like CubeSpark.

Lightning↗
NASA NTRS1978

Period variations in pulsating X-ray sources. I - Accretion flow parameters and neutron star structure from timing observations

Torque fluctuations which can lead to variations in the periods of pulsating X-ray sources are examined. A description of torque variations in terms of noise processes is developed, and the resulting noise models are applied to observations of several pulsating X-ray sources. It is shown that fluctuations in accretion torque could account for the observed period variations and spindown episodes in Her X-1 and Cen X-3. The values of the torque noise strengths inferred from either a nonresonant response or, in the case of Her X-1, a Tkachenko-mode interpretation of the data are found to be consistent with those expected from processes at the magnetospheric boundary of an accreting neutron star. Ways to distinguish among the various interpretations of the period variations are considered. It is noted that fluctuating mass-flow rates may be responsible for other phenomena observed in compact X-ray sources, such as wobble with zero initial amplitude and binary period variations in close binary systems experiencing mass transfer.

Lamb, F. K.↗
NASA NTRS1973

High energy and solar astronomy, overview

A survey of our own galaxy and neighboring galaxies using X-rays, gamma rays, and cosmic rays is outlined. High energy astrophysic results suggest the presence of a new acceleration mechanism where the inflow of matter on collapsed objects seems to be one of the sources of complex time variations in binary systems.

Mcdonald, F. B.↗
NASA NTRS1973

Experiments on radiatively driven harmonic acoustic waves in a confined gas.

Measurements are presented of the acoustic pressure resulting from the periodic absorption and emission of radiative energy by an infrared-active gas contained in a closed, cylindrical tube. The acoustic waves are generated by means of an external, sinusoidally time-modulated blackbody source. The pressure measurements are for both resonant and nonresonant conditions at acoustic frequencies from about 60 to 600 Hz. Comparison of the measurements with predictions shows that the response is due primarily to the modified-classical acoustic wave, but that a small contribution from the so-called radiation-induced wave can be measured in certain of the tests. Strong effects of vibrational nonequilibrium, similar to those observed previously in spectrophone studies, were found in some of the tests.

Compton, D. L.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Saturation effects associated with sound propagation in a turbulent medium

A theoretical analysis of the acoustic wave field radiated by a time-harmonic point source in a homogeneous, isotropic turbulent medium is presented. The smoothing method is used to study the incoherent, or randomly fluctuating, component of the wave field. The analysis considers the effect on the wave of the velocity fluctuations, as well as the index-of-refraction fluctuations, of the medium. An approximate expression for the second moment of the incoherent wave is obtained for the case in which the wavelenght is much less than the minimum correlation length of the medium. This expression shows that the fluctuations of the wave increase initially in proportion to the propagation distance, but that at larger distances they tend to a limiting, or saturation, value. These results agree with observations of waves propagating in real media. It is also found that the mean square of the total (i.e., coherent plus incoherent) acoustic pressure is unaffected by the randomness of the medium.

Wenzel, A. R.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Electron density profiles from ionograms - Underlying ionization corrections and their comparison with rocket results

Electron density profiles from nine daytime rocket flights at Wallops Island, Va., conducted at high and low levels of solar activity are compared with profiles calculated by inversion of ionograms obtained at the same times and location. Sources of error and uncertainty in the ionogram inversion are discussed, as are means for their amelioration. In most cases, agreement between the two kinds of measurement within a few percent in electron density and within a few percent of a scale height can be achieved.

Wright, J. W.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Narrow-angle cosmic-ray anisotropies

An alternate interpretation is presented for the diurnal cosmic ray anisotropy measurements made with underground muons in London. From the widely accepted models of cosmic ray diffusion in the Galaxy, a diurnal anisotropy (24 h wave) would be expected. But from a model predicting the occurrence of an excess within some small region of the celestial sphere, it is suggested that the direction of this excess would depend on the orientation (in space and time) of the source relative to galactic magnetic field lines which connect the source with the solar system.

Barrowes, S.↗
NASA NTRS1976

OSO-8 observations of Hercules X-1

The X-ray binary Her X-1 was observed by the GSFC cosmic X-ray detectors aboard OSO-8 between August 26 and September 3, 1975. The results reported are based on quick look tapes which contain less than 10% of the total time spent on source. Spectra were observed during different phases of the binary period including the anomalous low state (dip) in X-ray intensity. The normal high spectra is well represented by a power law with a short cutoff above approximately 25 keV. A significant and varying enhancement in the intensity around 6.7 keV was observed, suggesting the presence of an iron line. Absorption was seen in the spectrum immediately following eclipse. The dip spectrum is found to be considerably flattened. Also spectra are presented for different phases of the pulse period.

Pravdo, S. H.↗
NASA NTRS1977

Computer aided nonlinear electrical networks analysis

Techniques used in simulating an electrical circuit with nonlinear elements for use in computer-aided circuit analysis programs are described. Elements of the circuit include capacitors, resistors, inductors, transistors, diodes, and voltage and current sources (constant or time varying). Simulation features are discussed for dc, ac, and/or transient circuit analysis. Calculations are based on the model approach of formulating the circuit equations. A particular solution of transient analysis for nonlinear storage elements is described.

Slapnicar, P.↗
NASA NTRS1979

A rocket-borne electrostatic analyzer for measurement of energetic particle flux

A rocket-borne electrostatic analyzer experiment is described. It is used to measure energetic particle flux (0.9 to 14 keV) in the nighttime midlatitude E region. Energetic particle precipitation is believed to be a significant nighttime ionization source, particularly during times of high geomagnetic activity. The experiment was designed for use in the payload of a Nike Apache sounding rocket. The electrostatic analyzer employs two cylindrical parallel plates subtending a central angle of 90 deg. The voltage waveform supplied to the plates is a series of steps synchronized to the spin of the payload during flight. Both positive and negative voltages are provided, extending the detection capabilities of the instrument to both electrons and protons (and positive ions). The development, construction and operation of the instrument is described together with a preliminary evaluation of its performance in a rocket flight.

Pozzi, M. A.↗
NASA NTRS1978

On the contribution of normal galaxies to the diffuse X-ray background

A calculation has been made of the contribution of normal galaxies to the diffuse X-ray background, based on a model of the X-ray luminosity evolution of galaxies in which two populations of galactic X-ray sources are distinguished. With plausible estimates of the behavior of the galactic X-ray source populations with time, normal galaxies provide between 1.5% and 9% of the X-ray background between 2 and 10 keV. Unless massive halos exist around galaxies and their formation is accompanied by the production of early-type Population I X-ray binaries, a firm upper limit of about 25% can be set on the contribution of normal galaxies to the X-ray background between 2 and 10 keV.

Van Paradijs, J.↗