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At least 523 records · Page 29

AFE base flow computations

Hypersonic wake flows behind the Aeroassist Flight Experiment (AFE) geometry are analyzed using two Navier-Stokes flow solvers. Many of the AFE wake features observed in ballistic-range shadowgraphs are simulated using a simple, two-dimensional semicylinder geometry at moderate angles of attack. At free-stream conditions corresponding to a Hypersonic Free Flight Facility (HFFF) AFE experiment, the three-dimensional base flow for the AFE geometry is computed using an ideal-gas, Navier-Stokes solver. The computed results agree reasonably well with the shadowgraphs taken at the HFFF. An ideal-gas and a nonequilibrium Navier-Stokes solver have been coupled and applied to the complete flow around the AFE vehicle at the free-stream conditions corresponding to a nomial trajectory point. Limitations of the coupled ideal-gas and nonequilibrium solution are discussed. The nonequilibrium base flow solution is analyzed for the wake radiation and the radiation profiles along various lines of sight are compared. Finally, the wake unsteadiness is predicted using experimental correlations and the numerical solutions. An adaptive grid code, SAGE, has been used in all the simulations to enhance the solution accuracy. The grid adaptation is found to be necessary in obtaining base flow solutions with accurate flow features.

Venkatapathy, Ethiraj↗

An Implementation Of The Solution-Adaptive-Grid Method

NASA technical memorandum discusses solution-adaptive-grid method and Self Adaptive Grid Evolution (SAGE) computer code, which implements method. Provides for redistribution of points in grids used to compute flows, especially supersonic and hypersonic flows containing shocks, and other strong gradient regions, discontinuities, and sheer layers. Performed on basis of flow solution obtained on initial grid, then flow recomputed on adapted grid.

Davies, Carol B.↗

Millimeter-wave ozone measurements for the network for the detection of stratospheric change

The primary research objective is to initiate long-term monitoring of stratospheric ozone with a ground-based millimeter-wave spectrometer, the first of several such instruments projected to be part of the Network for the Detection of Stratospheric Change. The ultimate goal of this monitoring is twofold. First, to detect any secular trend in stratospheric ozone abundance, whether of natural or anthropogenic origin and, second, to provide ground-truth validation for existing and future satellite measurements of ozone. With this goal in mind, a more immediate objective is to validate the millimeter-wave measurements by tests of the instrument, internal consistency tests on the data, and most importantly, by intercomparison with all other available ozone measurements. The validation process is expected to lead to refinements in the instrument and its operating procedures and in the data analysis. The final objective is to perform short-term scientific studies with the data, including studies of the ozone diurnal and seasonal variations, and comparison of ozone variations with changes in other geophysical parameters, notably temperature and water vapor. Routine observations are now ongoing; these will allow continuing intercomparisons with the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE II) and one of the lidars, which is permanently on site. The experience gained during the Stratospheric Ozone Intercomparison (STOIC) caused us to refine our calibration procedures and identify the need for internal shielding of the millimeter receiver from radio frequency interference. Installation of this shielding is planned for the near future and should allow improvements in the instrument calibration and a higher signal-to-noise ratio, both of which will result in improved measurement precision.

Connor, Brian J.↗

Analysis of satellite data to deduce stratospheric constituents and UV spectroscopic properties of the atmosphere

The objective is to better understand the stratosphere, its constituents, and its ultraviolet optical properties, through detailed analysis of data from the SBUV instrument on Nimbus 7 and comparison with data from other instruments, including the NOAA 9 SBUV 2, SAGE, SME, and SMM. One conclusion to be drawn from the Ozone Trends Panel report is that there are unresolved differences in the ozone profiles measured by different instruments. While the purpose of the work is more to understand the details of the UV radiation field in the stratosphere than it is to assess the accuracy of the SBUV ozone measurement itself, improved understanding of specific problems in the UV will lead to more accurate ozone retrievals. Areas of study include the effect of aerosols on the backscattered albedo, the shape of the ozone profile near the stratopause, the effect of possible polar mesospheric clouds, and the measureability of nitric oxide and sulfur dioxide.

Mcpeters, Richard D.↗

Trends in stratospheric temperature

Stratospheric temperatures for long-term and recent trends and the determination of whether observed changes in upper stratospheric temperatures are consistent with observed ozone changes are discussed. The long-term temperature trends were determined up to 30mb from radiosonde analysis (since 1970) and rocketsondes (since 1969 and 1973) up to the lower mesosphere, principally in the Northern Hemisphere. The more recent trends (since 1979) incorporate satellite observations. The mechanisms that can produce recent temperature trends in the stratosphere are discussed. The following general effects are discussed: changes in ozone, changes in other radiatively active trace gases, changes in aerosols, changes in solar flux, and dynamical changes. Computations were made to estimate the temperature changes associated with the upper stratospheric ozone changes reported by the Solar Backscatter Ultraviolet (SBUV) instrument aboard Nimbus-7 and the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE) instruments.

Schoeberl, M. R.↗

Observation of Stratospheric Ozone with NIES Lidar System in Tsukuba, Japan

Lidars are expected to play important roles in an international monitoring network of the stratosphere such as the Network for the Detection of Stratospheric Change (NDSC). The National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) in Tsukuba constructed an ozone lidar system in March 1988 and started observation in August 1988. The lidar system has a 2-m telescope and injection locked XeCl and XeF excimer lasers which can measure ozone profiles (15-45 km) and temperature profiles (30-80 km). From December 1991, lidar observations have been carried out in which the second Stokes line of the stimulated Raman scattering of a KrF laser has been used. Ozone profiles obtained with the NIES lidar system are compared with the data provided by the SAGE II satellite sensor. Results showed good agreement for the individual and the zonal mean profiles. Variations of ozone with various time scales at each altitude can be studied using the data obtained with the NIES ozone lidar system. Seasonal variations are easily found at 20 km, 30 km, and 35 km, which are qualitatively understood as a result of dynamical and photochemical effects. Systematic errors of ozone profiles due to the Pinatubo stratospheric aerosols have been detected using multi-wavelength observation.

Nakane, H.↗

Lidar Observations of the Pinatubo Volcanic Cloud over Hampton, Virginia

A series of eruptions of Mt. Pinatubo climaxed in a cataclysmic eruption on June 15-16, which greatly perturbed the stratospheric aerosol layer. These eruptions yielded an estimated 20 megatons of SO2, which is three times the amount produced by El Chichon. Lidar measurements taken by the 48-inch lidar system at Langley Research Center show the vertical distribution, intensity and spread of the Pinatubo aerosol layers over the middle latitude locations. A few observations have also been made using an airborne lidar system which measures scattering and depolarization. The magnitude and transport time of the volcanic aerosols following Pinatubo and El Chichon are compared. In addition, comparisons are made between the ground-based lidar measurements and near-coincident Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE) 2 satellite observations of the Pinatubo aerosol layers.

Osborn, M. T.↗

Sampling and Representativeness for a Spaceborne Wind Lidar

The capability of an Earth-orbiting lidar to produce a reliable windfield sampling with an error of 1-3 ms(exp -1) and that is relevant to numerical forecasting and climate studies is discussed. The spatial and temporal resolutions range from 100 km to 1000 km and 3 hr to 1 month respectively. In this respect cloud obstruction is of great concern, as it can prevent the lidar probing whole parts of the atmosphere, for both short and long periods of time. A worldwide analysis of cloudiness from either visual observations made from the ground or else from the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE) instrument, has shown that the average cloud cover is 60 percent. This analysis is only valid at large scales (time and space) compatible with the currently operating satellites. However, a lidar footprint is only about a hundred meters or less, and it was observed from ground based lidars that, even when the cloudiness is 100 percent, some lidar shots get through. A complete analysis of the probability of probing through clouds by a spaceborne lidar is presently beyond our capacities. Hence, no small scale cloudiness data set is yet available representing all kinds of meteorological situations at all latitudes.

Lieutaud, F.↗

Initial assessment of the stratospheric and climatic impact of the 1991 Mount Pinatubo eruption - Prologue

An overview is given of the techniques employed to evaluate the early effects of the volcanic eruption on the stratosphere and climate, and data are given on the initial eruption yield. Global satellite measurements were taken by TOMS, SAGE II, AVHRR, and other devices, and the initial results indicate an eruption yield of 20 megatons of SO2 and 20-30 megatons of H2SO4/H2O aerosol mass. The predicted effects of the eruption - accelerated global ozone depletion and surface cooling - can be compared to meteorological data to test the validity of present climate models based on these data.

Mccormick, M. P.↗

Ground-based microwave monitoring of stratospheric ozone

A microwave instrument developed for operational measurements of ozone for the Network for Detection of Stratospheric Change is discussed. The instrument observes two spectral lines near 3-mm wavelength with a bandwidth of 630 MHz, allowing profile retrieval from 20 to 70 km. The observing technique and calibration procedures are described. The measurement forward model and retrieval algorithm are formulated. Preliminary comparisons with a colocated ground-based lidar and the SAGE II instrument are presented. The measurements are shown to typically agree to within 5 to 10 percent.

Parrish, A.↗

Time-periodic variations in stratospheric ozone from satellite observations

The time-periodic variations in stratospheric zonal mean ozone number density are examined with emphasis on annual and semi-annual oscillations. The data base for this analysis is the ozone observation from the SAGE II satellite instrument. A multiple linear regression method is adopted for the analysis. The results show that the amplitudes and phases of the time-periodic ozone variations are functions of altitude and latitude.

Wang, Pi-Huan↗

Radiative relaxation in the polar stratosphere - The role of ozone

Radiative relaxation processes of the thermal disturbances associated with planetary waves in the Antarctic stratospheric polar region have been studied by using satellite ozone measurements of the Stratospheric Aerosol and Gas Experiment (SAGE II) and the associated temperature data from the National Meteorological Center (NMC).

Wang, Pi-Huan↗

Extensions to the CIRA reference models for middle atmosphere ozone

The recent ozone reference models generated for the new COSPAR CIRA include ozone vertical structure from 25 to 90 km as a function of month and latitude based on five satellite experiments. The new model provided here extends the ozone vertical structure climatology from 20 mb (about 25 km) to 70 mb (about 18 km) based on three years of recently reprocessed AEM-2 SAGE I (sunset) data. In addition, model refinements are made at altitudes above 25 km based on the reprocessed data. Comparisons are made between the ozone reference models and nonsatellite data sets. The model extensions to lower altitudes are in excellent agreement with in situ measurements both at mid latitudes and in the tropics. Annual mean models of ozone are also provided as a function of latitude from 100 mb (about 16 km) to 0.003 mb (about 90 km).

Keating, G. M.↗

Atmospheric, climatic and environmental research

Work performed on the three tasks during the report period is summarized. The climate and atmospheric modeling studies included work on climate model development and applications, paleoclimate studies, climate change applications, and SAGE II. Climate applications of Earth and planetary observations included studies on cloud climatology and planetary studies. Studies on the chemistry of the Earth and the environment are briefly described. Publications based on the above research are listed; two of these papers are included in the appendices.

Broecker, Wallace S.↗

Flowfield computer graphics

The objectives of this research include supporting the Aerothermodynamics Branch's research by developing graphical visualization tools for both the branch's adaptive grid code and flow field ray tracing code. The completed research for the reporting period includes development of a graphical user interface (GUI) and its implementation into the NAS Flowfield Analysis Software Tool kit (FAST), for both the adaptive grid code (SAGE) and the flow field ray tracing code (CISS).

Desautel, Richard↗

Late-time cosmological phase transitions

It is shown that the potential galaxy formation and large scale structure problems of objects existing at high redshifts (Z approx. greater than 5), structures existing on scales of 100 M pc as well as velocity flows on such scales, and minimal microwave anisotropies ((Delta)T/T) (approx. less than 10(exp -5)) can be solved if the seeds needed to generate structure form in a vacuum phase transition after decoupling. It is argued that the basic physics of such a phase transition is no more exotic than that utilized in the more traditional GUT scale phase transitions, and that, just as in the GUT case, significant random Gaussian fluctuations and/or topological defects can form. Scale lengths of approx. 100 M pc for large scale structure as well as approx. 1 M pc for galaxy formation occur naturally. Possible support for new physics that might be associated with such a late-time transition comes from the preliminary results of the SAGE solar neutrino experiment, implying neutrino flavor mixing with values similar to those required for a late-time transition. It is also noted that a see-saw model for the neutrino masses might also imply a tau neutrino mass that is an ideal hot dark matter candidate. However, in general either hot or cold dark matter can be consistent with a late-time transition.

Schramm, David N.↗

A high radiometric performance CCD for the third generation stratospheric aerosol and gas experiment

A third-generation SAGE instrument is about to be designed as part of the NASA Earth Observational System. Previous instruments have used individual diodes as detectors. The new instrument will use a custom design CCD to dramatically enhance the study of the gas and aerosol components of the upper atmosphere. The CCD is a 3 by 400 imaging array that has a single serial register and an exposure control drain. It will be used at the focal plane of a spectrometer covering the spectral range from 288 nm to 1.02 micron.

Delamere, Alan↗

Estimation of solar backscatter ultraviolet albedo using ground-based Umkehr measurements

A retrieval method was developed to estimate the solar backscatter ultraviolet (SBUV) satellite albedo for the ozone profiler wavelengths using ground-based ultraviolet measurements. For the present investigation the Umkehr was used as the ground-based ultraviolet measurement. Simulated SBUV data and Umkehr data theoretically computed from a priori ozone profiles observed by the SAGE II satellite were used to develop the retrieval algorithm and to test its capability. The test indicated that albedos for the SBUV ozone profiler wavelengths should allow estimates to a precision of +/- 5 percent or better, depending on the accuracy of the ultraviolet measurement. Retrievals using actual Umkehr observations were also performed to provide a preliminary look at the magnitude and annual variation of retrieved albedos. A case study was performed, comparing retrieved albedos with SBUV-measured albedos. The SBUV albedo change was seen to be approximately twice as large as the albedo changes estimated by the Umkehr method. Results of the investigation suggest that the method of estimation may be useful for determining the drift rate of the SBUV calibration.

Deluisi, John J.↗