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At least 523 records · Page 29

Satellite observed ozone variations and solar activity

The degree of association between total and stratospheric ozone and solar ultraviolet irradiance is evaluated based on mean monthly latitudinally averaged ozone observations from the Nimbus-4 BUV data set. The mean monthly 10.7 cm solar flux f(10.7), adjusted for varying earth-sun distance, is used as a convenient index of solar UV variation. Results show no obvious relationship between total ozone and solar ultraviolet irradiance based on analysis of satellite data over a period of seven years, even though such a relationship has been suggested from theoretical considerations. However, the analysis does indicate that there may be a positive response in the upper tropical stratosphere, at a height of about 45-50 km such that there is an increase in the ozone concentration following an increase in solar UV radiation, which is assumed to be indicated by an increase in f(10.7) flux

London, J.↗

Accuracy and Precision in the Southern Hemisphere Additional Ozonesondes (SHADOZ) Dataset 1998-2000 in Light of the JOSIE-2000 Results

A network of 12 southern hemisphere tropical and subtropical stations in the Southern Hemisphere ADditional OZonesondes (SHADOZ) project has provided over 2000 profiles of stratospheric and tropospheric ozone since 1998. Balloon-borne electrochemical concentration cell (ECC) ozonesondes are used with standard radiosondes for pressure, temperature and relative humidity measurements. The archived data are available at:http: //croc.gsfc.nasa.gov/shadoz. In Thompson et al., accuracies and imprecisions in the SHADOZ 1998- 2000 dataset were examined using ground-based instruments and the TOMS total ozone measurement (version 7) as references. Small variations in ozonesonde technique introduced possible biases from station-to-station. SHADOZ total ozone column amounts are now compared to version 8 TOMS; discrepancies between the two datasets are reduced 2\% on average. An evaluation of ozone variations among the stations is made using the results of a series of chamber simulations of ozone launches (JOSIE-2000, Juelich Ozonesonde Intercomparison Experiment) in which a standard reference ozone instrument was employed with the various sonde techniques used in SHADOZ. A number of variations in SHADOZ ozone data are explained when differences in solution strength, data processing and instrument type (manufacturer) are taken into account.

Witte, J. C.↗

C IV: Line profile correlations in NGC 4151

Relative flux changes of the narrow emission lines that form the double-peaked structure of the C 4 line in NGC 4151 suggest two distinct regions of line formation. Correlations independent of model assumptions show the response to variations of the red and blue peak intensities to the total C 4 flux are significantly different. The dependence of the red peak intensity relative to the total C 4 flux, defined as the flux in a specified wavelength range lambda lambda 1520-1580, suggests this component is formed in an extended photoionized region. The blue component appears more directly dependent on variations of the total C 4 flux, which may indicate a close association with nuclear outflow. Possible implications for broad line region models are discussed.

Michalitsianos, A. G.↗

Calibration of Landsat 8 Aquatic Reflectance Band Data to Spatial Variations in Chlorophyll a, Suspended Sediment, N, and P in Coastal Estuaries of Southern Louisiana

Nutrient enrichment of coastal estuaries is a proven causal agent of harmful algal blooms, fish kills, and hypoxic zones. To enable regional mapping in coastal estuaries of southern Louisiana of Chlorophyll a, suspended sediment, N, and P concentrations, monthly water sample data collected at over 30 stations along a 129 km transect in the Barataria Basin by Turner et al. (2019) were correlated with Landsat 8 aquatic reflectance (ar) band 3 and 4 image data (2013-2016). Results showed significant non-linear correlations (R2 > 0.2) of Landsat ar band 4 values with measured concentrations of Chlorophyll a, total suspended sediment, N, and P. The strongest correlations were revealed between Landsat ar band 4 reflectances and total P concentrations, periodically at R2 values > 0.6. Landsat ar band images revealed detailed variations in total N and P concentrations that were consistent with the measured nutrient declines associated with dilution of freshwater as sampling locations progressed toward more coastal saline waters. Regional map images of ar band 4 in 2019 and 2020 confirmed that recent openings of Bonnet Carre Spillway could have resulted in damage to oyster beds in the brackish Gulf waters near Lake Borgne and the Mississippi River Delta, possibly due to reduced salinity levels and enhanced sediment deposition.

Calibration↗

Studies of the observed and theoretical variations of atmospheric ozone

The four related topics covered include: (1) distributions of total and upper atmospheric ozone and their time and space variations; (2) observed and theoretical models of the quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO) ozone variation; (3) radiative processes in the upper atmosphere; and (4) relations between ozone and solar variations. The results of these studies are presented. They come from twenty-three published papers.

London, Julius↗

Observations of Ocean Primary Productivity Using MODIS

Measuring the magnitude and variability of oceanic net primary productivity (NPP) represents a key advancement toward our understanding of the dynamics of marine ecosystems and the role of the ocean in the global carbon cycle. MODIS observations make two new contributions in addition to continuing the bio-optical time series begun with Orbview-2's SeaWiFS sensor. First, MODIS provides weekly estimates of global ocean net primary productivity on weekly and annual time periods, and annual empirical estimates of carbon export production. Second, MODIS provides additional insight into the spatial and temporal variations in photosynthetic efficiency through the direct measurements of solar-stimulated chlorophyll fluorescence. The two different weekly productivity indexes (first developed by Behrenfeld & Falkowski and by Yoder, Ryan and Howard) are used to derive daily productivity as a function of chlorophyll biomass, incident daily surface irradiance, temperature, euphotic depth, and mixed layer depth. Comparisons between these two estimates using both SeaWiFS and MODIS data show significant model differences in spatial distribution after allowance for the different integration depths. Both estimates are strongly dependence on the accuracy of the chlorophyll determination. In addition, an empirical approach is taken on annual scales to estimate global NPP and export production. Estimates of solar stimulated fluorescence efficiency from chlorophyll have been shown to be inversely related to photosynthetic efficiency by Abbott and co-workers. MODIS provides the first global estimates of oceanic chlorophyll fluorescence, providing an important proof of concept. MODIS observations are revealing spatial patterns of fluorescence efficiency which show expected variations with phytoplankton photo-physiological parameters as measured during in-situ surveys. This has opened the way for research into utilizing this information to improve our understanding of oceanic NPP variability. Deriving the ocean bio-optical properties places severe demands on instrument performance (especially band to band precision) and atmospheric correction. Improvements in MODIS instrument characterization and calibration over the first 16 mission months have greatly improved the accuracy of the chlorophyll input fields and FLH, and therefore the estimates of NPP and fluorescence efficiency. Annual estimates now show the oceanic NPP accounts for 40-50% of the global total NPP, with significant interannual variations related to large scale ocean processes. Spatial variations in ocean NPP, and exported production, have significant effects on exchange of CO2 between the ocean and atmosphere. Further work is underway to improve both the primary productivity model functions, and to refine our understanding of the relationships between fluorescence efficiency and NPP estimates. We expect that the MODIS instruments will prove extremely useful in assessing the time dependencies of oceanic carbon uptake and effects of iron enrichment, within the global carbon cycle.

Esaias, Wayne E.↗

Observing Tsunamis in the Ionosphere Using Ground Based GPS Measurements

Ground-based Global Positioning System (GPS) measurements of ionospheric Total Electron Content (TEC) show variations consistent with atmospheric internal gravity waves caused by ocean tsunamis following recent seismic events, including the Tohoku tsunami of March 11, 2011. We observe fluctuations correlated in time, space, and wave properties with this tsunami in TEC estimates processed using JPL's Global Ionospheric Mapping Software. These TEC estimates were band-pass filtered to remove ionospheric TEC variations with periods outside the typical range of internal gravity waves caused by tsunamis. Observable variations in TEC appear correlated with the Tohoku tsunami near the epicenter, at Hawaii, and near the west coast of North America. Disturbance magnitudes are 1-10% of the background TEC value. Observations near the epicenter are compared to estimates of expected tsunami-driven TEC variations produced by Embry Riddle Aeronautical University's Spectral Full Wave Model, an atmosphere-ionosphere coupling model, and found to be in good agreement. The potential exists to apply these detection techniques to real-time GPS TEC data, providing estimates of tsunami speed and amplitude that may be useful for future early warning systems.

total electron content (TEC)↗

Measurements and analysis of ozone variations

The techniques that were used for total ozone and vertical distribution including measurement accuracy and precision are briefly discussed. A description of data availability is provided, and sample total ozone and stratospheric data are presented to illustrate the trends that were deduced from the data.

Source record↗

Optical Telescope Assembly Cost Estimating Model

Parametric cost models can be used by designers and project managers to compare cost between major architectural cost drivers and allow high-level design trades; enable cost-benefit analysis for technology development investment; and, provide a basis for estimating total project cost between related concepts. The NASA Marshall Space Flight Center has developed a 5- parameter cost model that explains 93% (Adjusted R2) of the cost variation in a database of 46 total ground and space telescope assemblies. This model can be used to estimate the most probably cost for the Habitable Exoplanet Telescope Assembly.

Stahl, H Philip↗

Method for Reducing Pumping Damage to Blood

Methods are provided for minimizing damage to blood in a blood pump wherein the blood pump comprises a plurality of pump components that may affect blood damage such as clearance between pump blades and housing, number of impeller blades, rounded or flat blade edges, variations in entrance angles of blades, impeller length, and the like. The process comprises selecting a plurality of pump components believed to affect blood damage such as those listed herein before. Construction variations for each of the plurality of pump components are then selected. The pump components and variations are preferably listed in a matrix for easy visual comparison of test results. Blood is circulated through a pump configuration to test each variation of each pump component. After each test, total blood damage is determined for the blood pump. Preferably each pump component variation is tested at least three times to provide statistical results and check consistency of results. The least hemolytic variation for each pump component is preferably selected as an optimized component. If no statistical difference as to blood damage is produced for a variation of a pump component, then the variation that provides preferred hydrodynamic performance is selected. To compare the variation of pump components such as impeller and stator blade geometries, the preferred embodiment of the invention uses a stereolithography technique for realizing complex shapes within a short time period.

Bozeman, Richard J., Jr.↗

Measurement of density and temperature in a hypersonic turbulent boundary layer using the electron beam fluorescence technique

Mean density and temperature fluctuations were measured across the turbulent, cooled-wall boundary layer in a continuous hypersonic (Mach 9.4) wind tunnel in air, using the nitrogen fluorescence excited by a 50 kV electron beam. Data were taken at three values of the tunnel stagnation pressure, the corresponding free stream densities being equivalent to 1.2, 4.0, and 7.4 torr at room temperature, and the boundary layer thicknesses about 4.0, 4.5, and 6.0 inches. The mean temperature and density profiles were similar to those previously determined in the same facility by conventional probes (static and pitot pressure, total temperature). A static pressure variation of about 50% across the boundary layer was found, the shape of the variation changing somewhat for the three stagnation pressure levels. The quadrupole model for rotational temperature spectra gave closer agreement with the free stream isentropic level (approximately 44 K) than the dipole model.

Mcronald, A. D.↗

Influence of a solar proton event on stratospheric ozone

Ozone depletion in the stratosphere associated with the solar proton event of August 4, 1972, was observed with the backscattered ultraviolet experiment on the Nimbus 4 satellite. An abrupt ozone decrease in the 75-80 deg N zone of about 0.002 atm-cm above 4 mb was observed to persist throughout the month of August. A decrease was noted in the 55-65 deg N zone on days 219 and 220, but recovery occurred on day 221. Thereafter, a more gradual decrease was observed. The equatorial zone also showed gradual decrease after day 218, but these were not uniquely distinguished from seasonal variations. The observed change in total ozone following the event was -0.003 atm-cm for the 75-80 deg N zone, corresponding to a 1.3 percent reduction in the 0.305 atm-cm zonal average, but within the 0.019 atm-cm standard deviation. Above the 10 mb surface in the 75-80 deg N zone however, a decrease of 0.004 atm-cm may be compared with a standard deviation of 0.001 atm-cm.

Heath, D. F.↗

Stratospheric ozone as viewed from the Chappuis band

Total stratospheric ozone values above high-altitude stations in southern California from 1912 to 1950 and northern Chile from 1918 to 1948 are determined using data obtained by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, including transmission measurements made in the Chappuis band (0.5 to 0.7 micron). The results show that at both sites, total ozone amounts commonly exhibit variations of as much as 20% to 30% on time scales ranging from months to decades. Consideration of the amount of incident solar energy absorbed by the Chappuis band suggests that ozone acts as a shutter on the incoming solar radiation and provides a trigger mechanism between solar activity and climatic change.

Angione, R. J.↗

An analysis of the rotor blade stresses of the three stage compressor of the Ames Research Center 11- by 11-foot transonic wind tunnel

The static and dynamic rotor blade stresses of the three stage compressor were measured. Data are presented in terms of total blade stress for the complete operational range of compressor speeds and tunnel total pressures. Modal frequencies and variations with tunnel conditions were measured. Phase angles and coherences between various gage combinations are also presented. Recommendations for improvements are given for future rotor blade experimental investigations.

Dods, J. B., Jr.↗

Determination of variations of the solar radius from solar eclipse observations

This paper describes the method to determine the solar radius and its variations from observations made during total solar eclipses. In particular, the procedure to correct the spherical moon predictions for the effects of lunar mountains and valleys on the width and location of the path of totality is addressed in detail. The errors affecting this technique are addressed, a summary of the results of its application to three solar eclipses are presented, and the implications of the results on the constancy of the solar constant are described.

Sofia, S.↗

Eclipse radius measurements

Methods for predicting the path edges and reducing observations of total solar eclipses for determining variations of the solar radius are described. Analyzed observations of the 1925 January eclipse show a 0.7 (arc second) decrease in the solar radius during the past fifty years.

Dunham, D. W.↗

Observations of the soft X-ray diffuse background at 0.1 keV

The results of a sounding rocket flight that observed the very soft X-ray diffuse background in a section of the northern Galactic hemisphere are presented. The ratio of the measured Be band count rates to the Wisconsin sky survey B band count rates is nearly constant over a 120 deg arc on the sky, strongly suggesting a common emission mechanism for both Be and B band X-rays. The mean free path is about seven times smaller for the Be band than for the B band. The present results imply that the neutral hydrogen column density between the emitting material and the earth varies by less than 2 x 10 to the 18th H I/sq cm over the observed region. It is concluded that such variations are unlikely unless the total intervening column density is less than a few times this value.

Bloch, J. J.↗