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At least 37 records · Page 2

A3 Subscale Diffuser Test Article Design

This paper gives a detailed description of the design of the A3 Subscale Diffuser Test (SDT) Article Design. The subscale diffuser is a geometrically accurate scale model of the A3 altitude rocket facility. It was designed and built to support the SDT risk mitigation project located at the E3 facility at Stennis Space Center, MS (SSC) supporting the design and construction of the A3 facility at SSC. The subscale test article is outfitted with a large array of instrumentation to support the design verification of the A3 facility. The mechanical design of the subscale diffuser and test instrumentation are described here

Saunders, G. P.↗

Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope [WFIRST]: Telescope Design and Simulated Performance

The ASTRO2010 Decadal Survey proposed multiple missions with NIR focal planes and 3 mirror wide field telescopes in the 1.5m aperture range. None of them would have won as standalone missions WFIRST is a combination of these missions, created by Astro 2010 committee. WFIRST Science Definition Team (SDT) tasked to examine the design. Project team is a GSFC-JPL-Caltech collaboration. This interim mission design is a result of combined work by the project team with the SDT.

infrared telescopes↗

Wide-Field InfraRed Survey Telescope WFIRST

In December 2010, NASA created a Science Definition Team (SDT) for WFIRST, the Wide Field Infra-Red Survey Telescope, recommended by the Astro 2010 Decadal Survey as the highest priority for a large space mission. The SDT was chartered to work with the WFIRST Project Office at GSFC and the Program Office at JPL to produce a Design Reference Mission (DRM) for WFIRST. Part of the original charge was to produce an interim design reference mission by mid-2011. That document was delivered to NASA and widely circulated within the astronomical community. In late 2011 the Astrophysics Division augmented its original charge, asking for two design reference missions. The first of these, DRM1, was to be a finalized version of the interim DRM, reducing overall mission costs where possible. The second of these, DRM2, was to identify and eliminate capabilities that overlapped with those of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (henceforth JWST), ESA's Euclid mission, and the NSF's ground-based Large Synoptic Survey Telescope (henceforth LSST), and again to reduce overall mission cost, while staying faithful to NWNH. This report presents both DRM1 and DRM2.

Green, J.↗

Implementation of a Body Force Model in OVERFLOW for Propulsor Simulations

We present an implementation of a propulsor model based on body force method into the OVERFLOW computational fluid dynamics code to model turbofan engines and propulsors of similar type. The model estimates the forces imparted on the fluid by the blade camber surfaces as a body force source terms in the momentum and energy equations over grids that represent the rotor and stator of a fan stage. We tested the implementation on three cases: 1) Source Diagnostics Test (SDT) fan with R4 rotors, which has extensive test data on aerodynamic performance and rotor wake surveys, 2) A stand-alone Aeronaut TF8000 propulsor which is an off-the-shelf propulsor used on model aircraft and 3) The D8 aircraft model with TF8000 propulsors placed in a wind tunnel. Despite missing some of the features in the velocity profiles near the endwalls (i.e. hub and casing surfaces), the OVERFLOW simulations with body force model predicted area-averaged flow speed and total pressure rise through the SDT propulsor within a few percent of the LDV (Laser Doppler Velocimetry) measurements. In the case of TF8000 propulsor on the D8 airframe, the model under-predicted mechanical power coefficient by several percent of the wind tunnel test results when the horizontal force balance condition over the airframe is targeted by tuning rotor speed. By investigating the upstream influence of the rotor swirl, it was found out that the induced swirl velocity effects upstream were relatively small and they rapidly vanished before reaching one fan diameter upstream of the fan face. The body force model provided insights on aerothermodynamics and aeromechanics of boundary layer ingesting propulsor; these insights could not be obtained by using the uniform pressure jump model.

Propulsor↗

Mission Concept for a Europa Lander

A NASA HQ-directed study team led by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) with partners including Applied Physics Lab, Marshall Space Flight Center, Goddard Space Flight Center, Langley Research Center and Sandia National Laboratory has recently presented a mission concept for a Europa Lander that would search for bio-signatures and signs of life in the near-subsurface of the Jovian moon. The mission would follow the Europa Clipper multiple-flyby mission, planned for launch in June of 2022, which would provide reconnaissance imagery and other data to the Lander for use in selecting a scientifically compelling site and certifying it for engineering safety. The Europa Lander concept accommodates the Model Payload identified by the Europa Lander Science Definition Team (SDT) and documented in the Europa Lander Study 2016 Report released in February of 2017. The currently envisioned Europa Lander would launch on an SLS Block 1B as early as October of 2025 into a VEGA trajectory, arriving in the Jovian system as early as July of 2030. The baseline design of the integrated flight system includes a dedicated Carrier and Relay Stage, a Deorbit Vehicle composed of a Deorbit Stage consisting of a solid rocket motor (SRM), an MSL-like sky-crane Descent Stage, and a Lander which accommodates the instrument suite. The Lander would be powered by primary batteries over a 20-day surface mission. The science goals envisioned by the SDT require five samples taken from a depth of 10cm, a depth chosen to ensure minimal radiation processing of the potential biomarkers. Mission challenges include the large launch mass, unknown terrain topography, surface composition and materials properties, the high radiation environment, and complying with stringent planetary protection requirements. The mission concept uses a strategy of early risk reduction and overlapping requirements to provide robustness to harsh and uncertain environments. Early risk reduction efforts are aimed at maturing technologies associated with the sampling system, the intelligent landing system, high specific energy batteries, low mass and power motor controllers, and a thermal sterilization system.

Dooley, Jennifer↗

Fan Noise Predictions of the NASA Source Diagnostic Test Using Unsteady Simulations with LAVA Part I: Near-Field Aerodynamics and Turbulence

A sliding mesh technique within the Launch, Ascent, and Vehicle Aerodynamics (LAVA) computational framework is validated using the experimental dataset collected as part of the NASA Source Diagnostic Test (SDT) campaign. Two modeling approaches are explored: the unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes (URANS) with Spalart-Allmaras (SA) turbulence model closure, and a hybrid Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes/Large Eddy Simulation (RANS/LES) paradigm employing a Zonal Detached Eddy Simulation (ZDES) closure with enhanced shielding protection. Fan stage performance metrics, aerodynamic quantities and turbulent flow structures are analyzed in this work. Initial studies focusing on grid and time-step sensitivity are presented. Sensitivity to different variants of the SA turbulence model is analyzed, supporting the use of the baseline SA model in the production runs. Two conditions are analyzed in detail using URANS and hybrid RANS/LES (HRLES). Mean flow quantities are well-captured by both methods in the low-speed (approach) regime. While URANS misses all the upstream-propagating noise in the inlet due to the rotor-locked tones being evanescent in nature at subsonic fan tip speeds, HRLES captures this broadband component in its pressure field. At the high-speed (sideline) condition, URANS shows better agreement with the SDT data than HRLES in the interstage flow-field. In this regime, URANS captures the tonal content propagating through the inlet, since the tones are now cut-on. Both methods are suitable to capture fan stage performance metrics and mean flow quantities, but only HRLES is able to resolve the fine turbulent structures responsible for broadband noise. The results support the use of the sliding mesh technique implemented in this work for future turbomachinery applications within the LAVA solver framework.

AATT↗

Fan Noise Predictions of the NASA Source Diagnostic Test Using Unsteady Simulations with LAVA Part I: Near-Field Aerodynamics and Turbulence

A sliding mesh technique within the Launch, Ascent, and Vehicle Aerodynamics (LAVA) computational framework is validated using the experimental dataset collected as part of the NASA Source Diagnostic Test (SDT) campaign. Two modeling approaches are explored: the unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes (URANS) with Spalart-Allmaras (SA) turbulence model closure, and a hybrid Reynolds-Averaged Navier Stokes/Large Eddy Simulation (RANS/LES) paradigm employing a Zonal Detached Eddy Simulation (ZDES) closure with enhanced shielding protection. Fan stage performance metrics, aerodynamic quantities and turbulent flow structures are analyzed in this work. Initial studies focusing on grid and time-step sensitivity are presented. Sensitivity to different variants of the SA turbulence model is analyzed, supporting the use of the baseline SA model in the production runs. Two conditions are analyzed in detail using URANS and hybrid RANS/LES (HRLES). Mean flow quantities are well-captured by both methods in the low-speed (approach) regime. While URANS misses all the upstream-propagating noise in the inlet due to the rotor-locked tones being evanescent in nature at subsonic fan tip speeds, HRLES captures this broadband component in its pressure field. At the high-speed (sideline) condition, URANS shows better agreement with the SDT data than HRLES in the interstage flow-field. In this regime, URANS captures the tonal content propagating through the inlet, since the tones are now cut-on. Both methods are suitable to capture fan stage performance metrics and mean flow quantities, but only HRLES is able to resolve the fine turbulent structures responsible for broadband noise. The results support the use of the sliding mesh technique implemented in this work for future turbomachinery applications within the LAVA solver framework.

AATT↗

Science Objectives and Investigations for the Lunar GNSS Receiver Experiment (LuGRE)

In July 2020, NASA selected the Lunar GNSS Receiver Experiment (LuGRE) as the 10th payload of CLPS Task Order 19D. Firefly's Blue Ghost lander will deliver LuGRE and the other CLPS 19D payloads to the Moon's Mare Crisium. Developed jointly by NASA and the Italian Space Agency (ASI), LuGRE is intended to be the first demonstration of GNSS-based navigation beyond an altitude of 30 RE and the first to use GNSS on the lunar surface, expanding the proven reach of usable GNSS signals. Subsequent missions will be able to leverage LuGRE data and lessons learned to operationalize GNSS in the lunar regime, adding an existing, proven, real-time navigation source for spacecraft exploring the Moon. The primary goal of the LuGRE project is to extend GNSS-based navigation and timing to the Moon. LuGRE will fulfill this goal by gathering and processing GNSS data across several mission phases. The LuGRE Science Definition Team (SDT) was formed for the purpose of proposing science and technology investigations to be executed by the LuGRE project. A primary outcome of the work of the LuGRE SDT is a set of specific, high-value, achievable investigations to be performed as part of the science program. This paper provides a detailed description of the LuGRE science investigations and will present preliminary analyses that show how these investigations will be used to support the realization of lunar GNSS use in the future.

Lauren Konitzer↗

Psychophysical Models for Signal Detection with Time Varying Uncertainty

Psychophysical models for the behavior of the human operator in detection tasks which include change in detectability, correlation between observations and deferred decisions are developed. Classical Signal Detection Theory (SDT) is discussed and its emphasis on the sensory processes is contrasted to decision strategies. The analysis of decision strategies utilizes detection tasks with time varying signal strength. The classical theory is modified to include such tasks and several optimal decision strategies are explored. Two methods of classifying strategies are suggested. The first method is similar to the analysis of ROC curves, while the second is based on the relation between the criterion level (CL) and the detectability. Experiments to verify the analysis of tasks with changes of signal strength are designed. The results show that subjects are aware of changes in detectability and tend to use strategies that involve changes in the CL's.

Gai, E.↗

Space flight printed wiring board measling investigation

A flight printed wiring board (PWB) for a satellite project was observed to have a high incidence of measling. Other PWB's produced for the program by the same manufacturer did not exhibit the degree of measling as did the 'measle-prone' board. Measling susceptibility during hand soldering and measling effects on PWB insulation resistance were investigated for three production PWB's. Measling resistance was significantly different between the three boards: the 'worst' exhibited five times the number of measles as the 'best' board. 'Severe' measling (that which is likely to affect board reliability) did not exist on the 'best' board, even under extreme soldering conditions (399 degrees C for 12-15 sec.), whereas the 'worst' board showed an average of one 'severe' measle for every two pads under more normal soldering conditions (288-343 degrees C for 2-5 sec.). Both soldering time and temperature affected measling, with time having a slightly greater influence (2 percent versus 12 percent). Measling effects on PWB insulation resistance were inconclusive. These were evaluated by in situ resistance measurements on the same three boards at elevated temperature and humidity. The measured resistance for all three boards decreased for exposures greater than 50 degrees C and 50 percent relative humidity. The 'measle-prone' board showed a resistance decrease at only 25 degrees C and 50 percent relative humidity. However, no definitive difference was detected between measled and not-measled (control) samples. The boards evaluated were production boards, so the effect of interlayer traces connecting the plated-through holes was not controlled. It is likely the resistance measurements were over different volumes of PWB laminate, which would account for the widely varying resistances measured. Thermomechanical measurements on board laminate materials did not reveal any differences attributed to measling. Differences in glass transition temperature were significantly different when measured by DTA, but not by SDT. Laminate thermal expansion differences were significant for the 35 degrees C evaluations, but not for any higher temperatures.

Thomas, Walter B., III↗

Fan Noise Source Diagnostic Test: Tone Modal Structure Results

This investigation is part of a test series that was extremely comprehensive and included aerodynamic and acoustic testing of a fan stage using two different fan rotors and three different stator designs. The test series is known as the Source Diagnostic Test (SDT) and was conducted by NASA Glenn as part of the Advanced Subsonic Technology (AST) Noise Reduction Program. Tone mode measurements of one of the rotors with three different stators were made. The stator designs involve changes in vane count and sweep at constant solidity. The results of both inlet and exhaust tone mode measurements are presented in terms of mode power for both circumferential and radial mode orders. The results show benefits of vane sweep to be large, up to 13 dB in total tone power. At many conditions, the increase in power due to cutting on the rotor/stator interaction is more than offset by vane sweep. The rotor locked mode is shown as an important contributor to tone power when the blade tip speed is near and above Mach one. This is most evident in the inlet when the direct rotor field starts to cut on.

Heidelberg, Laurence J.↗

Fracture Control Requirements for Composite and Bonded Structures

Current new requirements document are top level or specific to shuttle payloads. NASA-STD-5007 top level requirement that imposes fracture control on all manned spacecraft hardware. Composites addressed at very top level. NASA_SDT-5003 imposes fracture control on payloads for the space shuttle. Imposes fracture control on composite and bonded structures. Silent on many important issues such as post proof NDE, residual strength, and reuse. Not adequate for or directly applicable to next generation of spacecraft.

Faile, Gwyn C.↗

To Land on Europa

The Science Definition Team (SDT) for NASA's Jupiter Icy Moons Orbiter (JIMO) Mission recommends including a lander as an integral part of the science payload of the JIMO Mission. The Europa Surface Science Package (ESSP) could comprise up to 25% of science payload resources. We have identified several key scientific and technical issues for such a lander, including 1) the potential effects of propellant contamination of the landng site, 2) the likely macroscopic surface roughness of potential landing sites, and 3) the desire to sample materials from depths of approximately 1 m beneath the surface. Discussion and consensus building on these issues within the science community is a prerequisite for establishing design requirements.

Shirley, James H.↗

A3 Subscale Rocket Hot Fire Testing

This paper gives a description of the methodology and results of J2-X Subscale Simulator (JSS) hot fire testing supporting the A3 Subscale Diffuser Test (SDT) project at the E3 test facility at Stennis Space Center, MS (SSC). The A3 subscale diffuser is a geometrically accurate scale model of the A3 altitude simulating rocket test facility. This paper focuses on the methods used to operate the facility and obtain the data to support the aerodynamic verification of the A3 rocket diffuser design and experimental data quantifying the heat flux throughout the facility. The JSS was operated at both 80% and 100% power levels and at gimbal angle from 0 to 7 degrees to verify the simulated altitude produced by the rocket-rocket diffuser combination. This was done with various secondary GN purge loads to quantify the pumping performance of the rocket diffuser. Also, special tests were conducted to obtain detailed heat flux measurements in the rocket diffuser at various gimbal angles and in the facility elbow where the flow turns from vertical to horizontal upstream of the 2nd stage steam ejector.

Saunders, G. P.↗

Optical Design Trade Study for the Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope [WFIRST]

The Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST) mission concept was ranked first in new space astrophysics mission by the Astro2010 Decadal Survey incorporating the Joint Dark Energy Mission (JDEM)-Omega payload concept and multiple science white papers. This mission is based on a space telescope at L2 studying exoplanets [via gravitational microlensing], probing dark energy, and surveying the near infrared sky. Since the release of NWNH, the WFIRST project has been working with the WFIRST science definition team (SDT) to refine mission and payload concepts. We present the driving requirements. The current interim reference mission point design, based on the use of a 1.3m unobscured aperture three mirror anastigmat form, with focal imaging and slitless spectroscopy science channels, is consistent with the requirements, requires no technology development, and out performs the JDEM-Omega design.

Content, David A.↗

Physics of Acoustic Radiation from Jet Engine Inlets

Numerical simulations of acoustic radiation from a jet engine inlet are performed using advanced computational aeroacoustics (CAA) algorithms and high-quality numerical boundary treatments. As a model of modern commercial jet engine inlets, the inlet geometry of the NASA Source Diagnostic Test (SDT) is used. Fan noise consists of tones and broadband sound. This investigation considers the radiation of tones associated with upstream propagating duct modes. The primary objective is to identify the dominant physical processes that determine the directivity of the radiated sound. Two such processes have been identified. They are acoustic diffraction and refraction. Diffraction is the natural tendency for an acoustic wave to follow a curved solid surface as it propagates. Refraction is the turning of the direction of propagation of sound waves by mean flow gradients. Parametric studies on the changes in the directivity of radiated sound due to variations in forward flight Mach number and duct mode frequency, azimuthal mode number, and radial mode number are carried out. It is found there is a significant difference in directivity for the radiation of the same duct mode from an engine inlet when operating in static condition and in forward flight. It will be shown that the large change in directivity is the result of the combined effects of diffraction and refraction.

Tam, Christopher K. W.↗

Detection of Optically Faint GEO Debris

There have been extensive optical surveys for debris at geosynchronous orbit (GEO) conducted with meter-class telescopes, such as those conducted with MODEST (the Michigan Orbital DEbris Survey Telescope, a 0.6-m telescope located at Cerro Tololo in Chile), and the European Space Agency's 1.0-m space debris telescope (SDT) in the Canary Islands. These surveys have detection limits in the range of 18th or 19th magnitude, which corresponds to sizes larger than 10 cm assuming an albedo of 0.175. All of these surveys reveal a substantial population of objects fainter than R = 15th magnitude that are not in the public U.S. Satellite Catalog. To detect objects fainter than 20th magnitude (and presumably smaller than 10 cm) in the visible requires a larger telescope and excellent imaging conditions. This combination is available in Chile. NASA's Orbital Debris Program Office has begun collecting orbital debris observations with the 6.5-m (21.3-ft diameter) "Walter Baade" Magellan telescope at Las Campanas Observatory. The goal is to detect objects as faint as possible from a ground-based observatory and begin to understand the brightness distribution of GEO debris fainter than R = 20th magnitude.

Seitzer, P.↗

Wide Field Infra-Red Survey Telescope (WFIRST) 2.4-Meter Mission Study

The most recent study of the Wide Field Infrared Survey Telescope (WFIRST) mission is based on reuse of an existing 2.4m telescope. This study was commissioned by NASA to examine the potential science return and cost effectiveness of WFIRST by using this significantly larger aperture telescope. We review the science program envisioned by the WFIRST 2012-2013 Science Definition Team (SDT), an overview of the mission concept, and the telescope design and status. Comparisons against the previous 1.3m and reduced cost 1.1m WFIRST design concepts are discussed. A significant departure from past point designs is the option for serviceability and the geostationary orbit location which enables servicing and replacement instrument insertion later during mission life. Other papers at this conference provide more in depth discussion of the wide field instrument and the optional exoplanet imaging coronagraph instrument.

exoplanet imaging coronagraph↗