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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.

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At least 397 records · Page 22

Plans for West Coast STS launch capability

The layout and scope of operations of the Vandenberg AFB West Coast Launch Site for the Space Shuttle are examined. The launch site intended for the first West Coast launch in December 1983 is being constructed by the United States Air Force. Topic discussed include site/selection/management/concepts, Shuttle hardware flow and related facilities, launch pad operations, orbiter erection at SLC-6 VAFB, solid rocket booster operations, and payload ground processing. In conclusion it is noted that NASA and DOD personnel are working together to ensure that the launch site is completed on schedule at minimum cost.

Murphy, W. P.↗

Orbiter CIU/IUS communications hardware evaluation

The DOD and NASA inertial upper stage communication system design, hardware specifications and interfaces were analyzed to determine their compatibility with the Orbiter payload communications equipment (Payload Interrogator, Payload Signal Processors, Communications Interface Unit, and the Orbiter operational communications equipment (the S-Band and Ku-band systems). Topics covered include (1) IUS/shuttle Orbiter communications interface definition; (2) Orbiter avionics equipment serving the IUS; (3) IUS communication equipment; (4) IUS/shuttle Orbiter RF links; (5) STDN/TDRS S-band related activities; and (6) communication interface unit/Orbiter interface issues. A test requirement plan overview is included.

Huth, G. K.↗

Optical sensors for aeronautics and space

A review of some NASA and DOD programs to develop optical sensors with fiberoptics for instrumentation and control is presented. Fiberoptic systems offer some distinct advantages. Noise immunity is one important asset. Fiberoptic systems do not conduct electricity and therefore can be used in and near areas that contain explosive or flammable materials. One objective of these programs is to produce more reliable sensors and to improve the safety and operating economy of future aircraft and space vehicles.

Baumbick, R. J.↗

The applicability of DOE solar cell and array technology to space power

An evaluation of the main terrestrial photovoltaic development projects was performed. Technologies that may have applicability to space power are identified. Where appropriate, recommendations are made for programs to capitalize on developed technology. It is concluded that while the funding expended by DOE is considerably greater than the space (NASA and DOD) budget for photovoltaics, the terrestrial goals and the means for satisfying them are sufficiently different from space needs that little direct benefit currently exists for space applications.

Scott-Monck, J. A.↗

Military markets for solar thermal electric power systems

The Department of Defense maintains an inventory of over 1,800 MW of engine-generators 15 KW and larger, with an estimated procurement rate of over 140 MW/year. Nearly the entire requirement could be met by advanced heat engines of the types being developed as point-focussing, distributed receiver power plants. A conceptual system consisting of a heat engine which efficiently burns liquid fossil or synthetic fuels, with a 'solarization kit' for conversion to hybrid solar operation could meet existing DOD requirements for new systems which are quieter, lighter, and multi-fueled. An estimated 24 percent (33 MW/year) or more could operationally benefit from the solar option. Baseline cost projections indicate levelized energy cost goals of 210 to 120 mills/KWh (15 to 1000 KW systems). Fuel cost escalation is the major factor affecting the value of the solar option. A baseline calculation for fuel at $0.59/gal in spring, 1979, escalating at 8 percent above general inflation indicates a value of $2700/KWe for a solarization kit.

Hauger, J. S.↗

Synchronous energy technology program

The power program in NASA and DOD are discussed with emphasis on the technology for future large space power systems. The structure of the synchronous energy technology program is described and the technologies required for future geosynchronous power stations are defined. The output of the program is to be a series of design data documents to provide design information and to transfer the technology to the involved community.

Finke, R. C.↗

Space Shuttle: Dawn of an era; Proceedings of the Twenty-sixth Annual Conference, Los Angeles, Calif., October 29-November 1, 1979. Parts 1 & 2

Aspects of the Space Shuttle program are considered with attention given to DOD applications, the role of the astronaut, industry in space, large platforms in space, the Space Transportation System, and the second generation Shuttle. Also considered are small self-contained payloads, attached payloads, free flying science payloads, free flying applications payloads, space medicine and life sciences, international payloads, and deep-space payloads.

Rector, W. F., III↗

Inertial Upper Stage/Shuttle Orbiter communications

The Inertial Upper Stage (IUS) system is intended for DOD and NASA space vehicle (S/V) launches from the Shuttle Orbiter. Prior to and during the IUS launch, commands must be transmitted to the S/V and IUS and the telemetry data must be communicated to the Orbiter. This paper describes the communication links between the IUS and the Orbiter, with particular emphasis on the RF link equipment and performance. The transponder equipment carried on board the IUS system is also described.

Huth, G. K.↗

Evolution of a standard microprocessor-based space computer

An existing in inventory computer hardware/software package (B-1 RFS/ECM) was repackaged and applied to multiple missile/space programs. Concurrent with the application efforts, low risk modifications were made to the computer from program to program to take advantage of newer, advanced technology and to meet increasingly more demanding requirements (computational and memory capabilities, longer life, and fault tolerant autonomy). It is concluded that microprocessors hold promise in a number of critical areas for future space computer applications. However, the benefits of the DoD VHSIC Program are required and the old proliferation problem must be revised.

Fernandez, M.↗

Solar power R and D for Air Force space requirements

The requirements for improved solar power system technology for DOD satellites are reported. It is shown that the technology is required in several areas including solar cells, array blanket technology, energy storage and power system operation, and regulation and control. It is further shown that as the missions become more critical to defence, military aspects such as survivability, hardening, and eventually defence must be addressed.

Wise, J. F.↗

Preliminary interface revision notice SD-152C update of section 8.3 of ICD 2-19001 for detached payloads

The payload interrogator provides full duplex communication between the orbiter and detached payloads. This capability includes transmission of commands to and the reception of telemetry data from such payloads. Both NASA (STDN and DSN) and DOD (SGLS) transmit/receive frequency pairs are available. In addition to two way RF communication, Ku band rendezvous radar is also available. The radar skin-tracks targets in the passive mode or actively tracks transponder equipped payloads. Characteristics referring to those orbiter avionics characteristics of which the payloads must be cognizant and requirements referring to specifications placed upon payload communication equipment are discussed.

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Rotorcraft aviation icing research requirements: Research review and recommendations

The status of rotorcraft icing evaluation techniques and ice protection technology was assessed. Recommendations are made for near and long term icing programs that describe the needs of industry. These recommended programs are based on a consensus of the major U.S. helicopter companies. Specific activities currently planned or underway by NASA, FAA and DOD are reviewed to determine relevance to the overall research requirements. New programs, taking advantage of current activities, are recommended to meet the long term needs for rotorcraft icing certification.

Peterson, A. A.↗

Materials processing threshold report. 1: Semiconductor crystals for infrared detectors

An extensive search was performed of the open literature pertaining to infrared detectors to determine what constitutes a good detector and in what way performance is limited by specific material properties. Interviews were conducted with a number of experts in the field to assess their perceptions of the state of the art and of the utility of zero-gravity processing. Based on this information base and on a review of NASA programs in crystal growth and infrared sensors, NASA program goals were reassessed and suggestions are presented as to possible joint and divergent efforts between NASA and DOD.

Sager, E. V.↗

Conceptual design and analysis of orbital cryogenic liquid storage and supply systems

A wide variety of orbital cryogenic liquid storage and supply systems are defined in NASA and DOD long-range plans. These systems include small cooling applications, large chemical and electrical orbit transfer vehicles and supply tankers. All have the common requirements of low-g fluid management to accomplish gas-free liquid expulsion and efficient thermal control to manage heat leak and tank pressure. A preliminary design study was performed to evaluate tanks ranging from 0.6 to 37.4 cu m (22 to 1320 cu ft). Liquids of interest were hydrogen, oxygen, methane, argon and helium. Conceptual designs were generated for each tank system and fluid dynamic, thermal and structural analyses were performed for Shuttle compatible operations. Design trades considered the paradox of conservative support structure and minimum thermal input. Orbital performance and weight data were developed, and a technology evaluation was completed.

Eberhardt, R. N.↗

NASA's Role in Aeronautics: A Workshop. Volume 2: Military aviation

While the National Aeronautics and Space Act of 1958 makes DOD primarily responsible for military aeronautics, it stipulates a role for NASA in providing direct and indirect support for national defense. The existing role of NASA in support of military aeronautics is working well and is well coordinated. The role needs only to be kept effective and then improved by increasing its responsiveness to changing military requirements and by the selective application of additional people. Funding resources should also be made available to NASA for research. Specific roles that NASA could or should play were examined. It was determined that the most important areas for this support are in basic research, generic technology evolution, and facility support in the fields of aerodynamics, structures and materials, and propulsion.

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NASA's Role in Aeronautics: A Workshop. Volume 7: Background papers

The nature and implications of the current state of U.S. aviation in a world setting are examined as well as their significance for NASA's role in the nation's aeronautical future. The outlook for the 1980's is examined from the point of view of legislation, economics and finance; petroleum; manpower, metallic materials, general aviation; military aviation; transport aircraft developments; and helicopters. Possible NASA assistance to DOD and the FAA is examined and the evolution of NACA and NASA in aeronautics and of NASA's aeronautics capabilities are described.

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Department of Defense Precise Time and Time Interval program improvement plan

The United States Naval Observatory is responsible for ensuring uniformity in precise time and time interval operations including measurements, the establishment of overall DOD requirements for time and time interval, and the accomplishment of objectives requiring precise time and time interval with minimum cost. An overview of the objectives, the approach to the problem, the schedule, and a status report, including significant findings relative to organizational relationships, current directives, principal PTTI users, and future requirements as currently identified by the users are presented.

Bowser, J. R.↗

NTF and the Department of Defense

The relationship of the National Transonic Facility (NTF) to the Department of Defense (DOD) is discussed. Recognition of the need for the NTF capabilities were first encountered in military aircraft development. Several tactical aircrafts experienced the after body drag which was higher than predicted by small scale tests, resulting in less than desired transonic acceleration performance. It is necessary to understand the problem because flight efficiency is more important for military aircrafts. Improved cruise performance is required for the whole range of military mission. Factors that make cruise efficiency important include: (1) rapid deployment airlift capability; (2) self-deployment capability for tactical aircraft; (3) reduced tanker dependence for strategic aircraft. It is concluded that the continuing escalating cost of fuel mandates to develop aircraft that are as fuel efficient as possible. Other uses for NTF are outlined.

Siewert, R. F.↗