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At least 379 records · Page 21

Laboratory band strengths of methane and their application to the atmospheres of Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and Titan

This paper reports laboratory studies of the visible spectrum of methane at column densities between 0.4 and 5 km-am and confirms the identification of bands at 4410, 4590, 4860, 5090, 5430, 5760, and 5970 A as caused by methane. Detailed equivalent-width measurements at 15 different pressure path lengths are employed to determine curves of growth and band strengths for the bands at 4410, 4860, 5430, and 5760 A. Using the curve-of-growth measurements in the reduction of planetary observations, the methane abundances in the atmospheres of Jupiter and Saturn are found to be between a factor of 3 and 4 larger than previously accepted values based on the analysis of the 3 nu(3) band at 1.1 microns, while the amount on Titan is significantly less than that obtained from an analysis of the same band with the assumption of a pure methane atmosphere. The present results, when combined with the band analysis, suggest a surface pressure on Titan of at least 0.4 atm. Extrapolation of these laboratory data to observations of Uranus and Neptune lead to single-air-mass column densities of 5.8 and 7.6 km-am of methane, respectively.

Lutz, B. L.↗

Monitoring solar radiation: The ERDA program

An overview of the Energy Research and Development Administration planned insolation data network is described. The design of the network is predicated on an analysis and definition of user requirements. Research and analysis projects covering data collection, forecasting and extrapolation are presented.

Koomanoff, F. A.↗

A change in the X-ray spectrum of MK 421

HEAO-1 experiment A-2 observations of the BL Lac object MK421 in May 1978 show a marked spectral change from the OSO-8 observations of May 1977. The source was not detected above 10 keV in May 1978. The 2-10 keV spectrum could be well fit by a power law of energy slope 2.2 is less than or minus 4.2; thermal bremsstrahlung models with T less than 2 X 10 to the 7th power deg K are also acceptable. There was no indication of any low energy turnover, so that the inferred column density N sub H is less than 7 X 10 to the 21st power at/sq cm. The total flux is consistent with an extrapolation of the UV data from IUE, but the slope is not consistent with the UV slope. Possible models for the origin of the spectral transition are discussed.

Mushotzky, R. F.↗

A change in the X-ray spectrum of Markarian 421

HEAO 1 A-2 experiment observations of the BL Lacertae object Mrk 421 in May 1978 show a marked spectral change from the OSO 8 observations of May 1977. The source was not detected above 10 keV in May 1978. The 2-10 keV spectrum could be well fitted by a power law with an energy slope of 2.2 to 4.2; thermal bremsstrahlung models with T less than 20 million are also acceptable. There was no indication of any low-energy turnover, so that the inferred column density is less than 7 x 10 to the 21st H atoms per sq cm. The total flux is consistent with an extrapolation of the UV data from IUE, but the slope is not consistent with the UV slope. Possible models for the origin of the spectral transition are discussed.

Mushotzky, R. F.↗

Laboratory and field observations related to ice particle and aircraft charging in convective storms

Graupel particle charging in simulated cloud conditions which show the need for the presence of ice crystals and cloud water simultaneously except under conditions where secondary ice crystal production occurs when charging initially occurs in the absence of ice crystals was examined. The magnitude of the charging increases with size of ice crystals, and impact velocity; it is also sensitive to impurities. The magnitude of the charge is also sensitive to temperature and the sign changes between -10 and -20 C, depending on cloud liquid water content. Aircraft studies were carried out in Montana convective clouds to test the validity of the extrapolation of the laboratory data to the atmosphere from the viewpoint of generation of charge, electric field, and aircraft charging during cloud penetration.

Christian, H.↗

Photon and helium energy spectra above 1 TeV for primary cosmic rays

Energy spectra of protons and helium nuclei in primary cosmic rays were measured above 1 TeV in a series of balloon flights carrying emulsion chambers. Differential spectra may be represented by power laws of indices -2.81 + or - 0.13 and -2.83 + or - 0.20 for protons and He, respectively. No index change was observed for either species over the energy ranges 5-500 TeV for protons and 2-50 TeV/nucleon for He. Intensities were consistent with extrapolations of previously published data below 1 TeV/nucleon.

Burnett, T. H.↗

IRAS observations of NGC 1052

The galaxy NGC 1052 has been observed with the IRAS satellite. The infrared emission at 100 microns is substantially larger than a smooth extrapolation of the radio data. Because of the large diaphragm size of IRAS, it is impossible to decide uniquely if the infrared radiation represents a self-absorbed nonthermal spectrum or thermal reradiation by heated dust.

Neugebauer, G.↗

Laser velocimetry measurement in a transonic tunnel

Some preliminary velocity measurements were carried out inside the transonic tunnel using the laser velocimeter (LV) system in association with the smoke generator. Pressure measurements were also performed using a pressure tap located on the side wall of the test section slightly upstream of the windows. Though the pressure measurements and the LV measurements were not taken at exactly the same location, extrapolation of the pressure data into the location of the LV measurements indicated a very close agreement between the velocity values obtained using the two different methods. Thus it is believed that the smoke particle is following the air flow with little or no velocity slip. Velocity measurements with airfoil at various angles of attack are now being carried out in conjuction with schlieren flow visualization. In the near future pressure distribution around and on the airfoil will be obtained by putting pressure taps on the side windows and using a pressure tap model (currently under construction) of the airfoil.

Ng, T. T.↗

Feasibility study for convertible engine torque converter

The feasibility study has shown that a dump/fill type torque converter has excellent potential for the convertible fan/shaft engine. The torque converter space requirement permits internal housing within the normal flow path of a turbofan engine at acceptable engine weight. The unit permits operating the engine in the turboshaft mode by decoupling the fan. To convert to turbofan mode, the torque converter overdrive capability bring the fan speed up to the power turbine speed to permit engagement of a mechanical lockup device when the shaft speed are synchronized. The conversion to turbofan mode can be made without drop of power turbine speed in less than 10 sec. Total thrust delivered to the aircraft by the proprotor, fan, and engine during tansient can be controlled to prevent loss of air speed or altitude. Heat rejection to the oil is low, and additional oil cooling capacity is not required. The turbofan engine aerodynamic design is basically uncompromised by convertibility and allows proper fan design for quiet and efficient cruise operation. Although the results of the feasibility study are exceedingly encouraging, it must be noted that they are based on extrapolation of limited existing data on torque converters. A component test program with three trial torque converter designs and concurrent computer modeling for fluid flow, stress, and dynamics, updated with test results from each unit, is recommended.

Source record↗

Grain boundary oxidation and low-cycle fatigue at elevated temperatures

Fatigue life consists of fatigue crack nucleation and propagation periods. In order to predict fatigue life accurately, a methodology for the quantitative assessment of these two fatigue damage processes had to be devised. Grain boundary oxidation penetrates faster than does oxidation within a grain. This faster oxidation penetration causes intergranular fatigue failures at elevated temperatures. Grain boundary oxidation accelerates both crack nucleation and propagation. Grain boundary oxidation kinetics and the statistical distribution of grain boundary oxide penetration depth were measured. Quantitative applications of the grain boundary oxidation kinetics to fatigue crack nucleation and propagation were analyzed. A method, based on the Weibull distribution, of extrapolating the laboratory oxidation data measured with small samples to large engineering structures is presented.

Liu, H. W.↗

Origin of SNC kaersutitic amphibole: Experimental data

The SNC meteorites, a group of cumulus textured, fine grained diabases, pyroxenites, and dunites, appear to have crystallized at relatively shallow depths on the same SNC parent body. Hydrous minerals generally are not present among the cumulus and intercumulus minerals in these meteorites except for some iddingsite alteration of olivine. The presence of hydrous magmatic amphibole in the SNC melt inclusions indicates that crystallization of the melt inclusions had to take place at significant pressure, probably greater than 1 kb based on previous amphibole stability data. If experimental data for kaersutite amphibole were to be obtained, it should be possible to estimate this pressure more precisely then previously, and to estimate the volatile (H2O) content of the parent magma. At this point, the factors controlling the chemistry and stability of high TiO2, kaersutitic amphiboles are not known. In an attempt to determine the factors which control the stability and chemistry of TiO2-rich amphibole, data was refined and extrapolated from four experimental studies of amphibole-melt equilibria recently completed. At the same time, hypothermal experiments were performed on a composition considered to be an early melt in the Shergotty magma liquid line of descent. The latter experiments were an attempt to reproduce crystallization of the amphibole-bearing melt inclusions.

Rutherford, M. J.↗

Robotic vision/sensing for space applications

A review is presented of efforts currently in progress at the NASA/Johnson Space Center and Rice University, the accomplishments to date, and some of the anticipated future developments. Both systems and algorithms are discussed. The evolution of future vision/sensing is projected to included the fusion of multisensors ranging from microwave to optical with multimode capability to include position, attitude, recognition, and motion parameters. The algorithms for information extraction are expected to incorporate aspects of intelligence and knowledge for the interpolation and extrapolation of the needed data. The key features of the overall system design will be small size and weight, fast signal processing, robust algorithms, and accurate parameter determination. These aspects of vision/sensing are also discussed.

Krishen, Kumar↗

A technique for extrapolating and validating forest cover across large regions - Calibrating AVHRR data with TM data

A method is presented for extending high-resolution forest cover information across large regions. Using Landsat TM data with AVHRR data, an empirical relationship beween AVHRR spectral signatures and forest cover is developed. The resulting regression equation is applied to an AVHRR scene covering a large area centered around southern Illinois. The map is used to estimate forest cover within a geographical information system. The results are compared with U.S. Forest Service estimates, showing good agreement.

Iverson, L. R.↗

Energy spectra of cosmic rays above 1 TeV per nucleon

Direct measurements of cosmic-ray nuclei above 1 TeV/nucleon have been performed in a series of balloon-borne experiments with emulsion chambers. The observed all-particle spectrum above 20 TeV is consistent with the results of the Proton satellite and many air shower experiments. The proton spectrum is consistent with a power law having an index of 2.76 + or - 0.09 up to at least 100 TeV, but an overabundance of helium by a factor of 2 above 2 TeV per nucleon is found when compared with the extrapolation from the low energies. For heavy elements (C through Fe), the intensities around 1 TeV/nucleon are consistent, within the statistical errors, with the extrapolation from lower energy data using the Spacelab 2 spectral indices. An enhancement for the medium-heavy components (C through Ca) above 200 TeV is indicated. The mean mass above 50 TeV indicates slightly higher values than the results of the air shower experiments.

Burnett, T. H.↗

Selection of wires and circuit protective devices for STS Orbiter vehicle payload electrical circuits

Electrical designers of Orbiter payloads face the challenge of determining proper circuit protection/wire size parameters to satisfy Orbiter engineering and safety requirements. This document is the result of a program undertaken to review test data from all available aerospace sources and perform additional testing to eliminate extrapolation errors. The resulting compilation of data was used to develop guidelines for the selection of wire sizes and circuit protection ratings. The purpose is to provide guidance to the engineering to ensure a design which meets Orbiter standards and which should be applicable to any aerospace design.

Gaston, Darilyn M.↗

Interactions of atomic oxygen with material surfaces in low Earth orbit: Preliminary results from experiment A0114

The atomic oxygen experiment consisted of two trays (one-sixth of a Long Duration Exposure Facility (LDEF) tray each) of 64 one inch diameter solid samples. It was intended that the effects of atomic oxygen and solar ultraviolet irradiation on the surface properties of each material could be distinguished from each other and from the effects of aging. Sixteen of the samples were placed on a thermally isolated plate of highly polished aluminum, while the main plate was coated with the thermal control coating S13-GLO. Though the experiment was entirely passive, it was hoped that the effects of thermal activation might be observed, if present. The plates were expected to stabilize at temperatures differing by 20-30 C. The samples included thin films of metals Os, Ir, Pt, Ni, Mo, and Al coated onto silica optical flats, metal carbides (WC, SiC), solid carbons of various types, eight polymers, and some other coatings of various types. Analysis is essentially complete using stylus profilometry with high sensitivity Talystep and lower sensitivity Talysurf machines. Though the integrated fluence of O atoms on the LDEF was 30 times that of previous missions, etch depths of the polymers such as the polyimide Kapton show excellent agreement with extrapolations from previous flight data. However, some new effects were observed. We demonstrated on a previous experiment on STS-8 that profilometry of this kind can show steps of 50 A (for example those due to oxide film growth on metals) and this is now the preferred method for estimating etch depth (or mass loss) of erodible substances.

Gregory, John C.↗

Thermodynamics of iron-aluminum alloys at 1573 K

The activities of iron (Fe) and aluminum (Al) were measured in Fe-Al alloys at 1573 K using the ion-current-ratio technique in a high-temperature Knudsen cell mass spectrometer. The Fe-Al solutions exhibited negative deviations from ideality over the entire composition range. The activity coefficientsγ Fe, andγ A1 are given by the following equations as a function of mole fraction (x Fe,x Al): 0<χA1<0.4 ln(γ(Fe))=−4.511(±0.008)χ^(2)(A1) ln(γ(A1))=−4.462(±0.029)χ^(2)(Fe) +0.325(±0.013) 0.6<χ(A1)<1.0 ln(γ(Fe))=−4.065(±0.006)χ^(2)(A1)+0.099(±0.003) ln(γ(A1))=−4.092(±0.026)χ^(2)(Fe)+0.002(±0.001) The results showed good agreement with those obtained from previous investigations at other temperatures by extrapolation of the activity data to 1573 K.

Jacobson, Nathan S.↗

Dynamics of a turbojet engine considered as a quasi-static system

A determination of the dynamic characteristics of a typical turbojet engine with a centrifugal compressor, a sonic-flow turbine-nozzle diaphragm, and fixed area exhaust nozzle is presented. A generalized equation for transient behavior of the engine was developed; this equation was then verified by calculations using compressor and turbine performance charts extrapolated from equilibrium operating data and by experimental data obtained from an engine operated under transients in fuel flow. The results indicate that a linear differential equation for engine acceleration as a function of fuel flow and engine speed for operation near a steady-state operating condition can be written. The coefficients of this equation can be obtained either from actual transient data or, with a fair degree of accuracy, from the steady-state performance maps of the compressor and turbine, and can be corrected for altitude in the same manner that steady-state performance data are corrected.

Otto, Edward W↗