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At least 55 records · Page 3

Plasma Properties and Magnetic Field Structure of the Solar Corona, Based on Coordinated Max '91 Observations from SERTS, the VLA, and Magnetographs

The plasma properties and magnetic field structure of the solar corona were determined using coordinated observations obtained with NASA/GSFC's Solar EUV Rocket Telescope and Spectrograph (SERTS), the Very Large Array (VLA), and Kitt Peak photospheric longitudinal magnetograms. A problem was identified with the SERTS calibration as determined from laboratory measurements. A revised calibration curve was derived by requiring that the numerous available measured line intensity ratios agreed with their respective theoretical values. Densities were derived from line intensity ratios, and active region densities were found to typically exceed quiet Sun densities by factors of only about 2. The active region density was found to remain constant across the SERTS slit, despite the fact that the emission line intensities vary significantly. This indicates that the product of the path length and the volume filling factor must vary significantly from the active region outskirts to the central core. Filling factors were derived and found to range from much less than one to nearly unity. Wavelength shifts were examined along the SERTS slit in the spatially resolved spectra, but no evidence was found for significant Doppler shifts in active region 7563 or in the quiet Sun. The numerical procedure developed by Monsignori-Fossi and Landini was used to derive the active region and quiet sun differential emission measure (DEM) from the spatially averaged spectra. A DEM was estimated for each spatial pixel in the two dimensional active region images by scaling the averaged active region DEM based upon corresponding pixel intensities of SERTS Mg IX, Fe XV, and Fe XVI images. These results, along with density measurements, were used in an IDL computer code which calculated the temperature dependence of the coronal magnetic field in each spatial pixel by minimizing the difference between the observed and calculated 20 and 6 cm microwave brightness temperatures.

Brosius, Jeffrey W.↗

Synthesis,and structural characterization of [(CH3(C5H4N))Ga(SCH2(CO)O)]-[(4-MepyH)]+, a novel Ga(III) five coordinate complex.

The synthesis and structural characterization of a novel ionic Ga(III) five coordinate complex [{CH3(C5H4N)}Ga(SCH2(CO)O)2]-[(4-MepyH)]+, (4-Mepy = CH3(C5H5N)) from the reaction between Ga2Cl4 with sodium mercapto-acetic acid in 4-methylpyridine is described. Under basic reaction conditions the mercapto ligand is found to behave as a 2e- bidentate ligand. Single crystal X-ray diffraction studies show the complex to have a distorted square pyramidal geometry with the [(-SCH2(CO)CO-)] ligands in a trans conformation. The compound crystallizes in the P2(sub 1)/c (No. 14) space group with a = 7.7413(6) A, b = 16.744(2) A, c = 14.459(2) A, V = 1987.1(6) A(sup 3), R(F) = 0.032 and R(sub w) = 0.038.

Banger, Kulbinder K.↗

Plasma properties and magnetic field structure of the solar corona, based on coordinated Max 1991 observations from SERTS, the VLA, and magnetographs

The purposes of this investigation are to determine the plasma properties and magnetic field structure of the solar corona using coordinated observations obtained with NASA/GSFC's Solar EUV rocket Telescope and Spectrograph (SERTS), the Very Large Array (VLA), and magnetographs. The observations were obtained under the auspices of NASA's Max '91 program. The methods of achieving the stated purposes of this investigation are: (1) to use SERTS spectra and spectroheliograms to determine coronal plasma properties such as temperature, density, and emission measure; (2) to use the coronal plasma properties to calculate the intensity of the thermal bremsstrahlung microwave emission from the coronal plasma (the minimum microwave intensity expected from the emitting plasma); (3) to establish which emission mechanism(s) contribute to the observed microwave emission by comparing the calculated thermal bremsstrahlung intensity with the observed microwave intensity; (4) to derive the coronal magnetic field for regions in which gyroemission contributes to the microwave emission by determining the appropriate harmonic of the local electron gyrofrequency; (5) to derive the coronal magnetic field for regions in which thermal bremsstrahlung emission alone is responsible for the observed microwave emission by calculating the magnetic field which yields the observed microwave polarization; (6) to derive three-dimensional models of the coronal plasma and magnetic field which are consistent with all of the EUV spectra and spectroheliograms, as well as with the intensity and polarization maps at all of the microwave observing frequencies; and (7) to compare the coronal magnetic field derived from the coordinated multiwaveband observations with extrapolations from photospheric magnetograms.

Brosius, Jeffrey W.↗

Plasma Properties and Magnetic Field Structure of the Solar Corona, Based on Coordinated Max 1991 Observations from SERTS, the VLA, and Magnetographs

The purposes of this investigation are to determine the plasma properties and magnetic field structure of the solar corona using coordinated observations obtained with NASA/GSFC's Solar EUV Rocket Telescope and Spectrograph (SERTS), the Very Large Array (VLA), and magnetographs. The observations were obtained under the auspices of NASA's Max '91 program. The methods of achieving the stated purposes are to use SERTS spectra and spectroheliograms to determine coronal plasma properties such as temperature, density, and emission measure. These properties are subsequently used to calculate the intensity of the thermal bremsstrahlung microwave emission from the coronal plasma (the minimum microwave intensity expected from the emitting plasma). This, in turn, can be used to establish which emission mechanism(s) contribute to the observed microwave emission. Because both mechanisms that may contribute to quiescent active region microwave emission (thermal bremsstrahlung and thermal gyroemission) depend upon the coronal magnetic field in known ways, this information can ultimately be used to derive the coronal magnetic field. Ideally, three-dimensional models of the coronal plasma and magnetic field which are consistent with all of the EUV spectra and spectroheliograms, as well as with the intensity and polarization maps at all of the microwave observing frequencies, can be derived. For completeness, the coronal magnetic field derived from the coordinated multiwaveband observations must be compared with extrapolations from photospheric magnetograms.

Brosius, Jeffrey W.↗

Coordinate transformation and truncation for rotating spacecraft with flexible appendages

The analytical structures of alternative coordinate transformations for the variables that characterize the deformations of finite element models of flexible appendages on rotating spacecraft are examined. Particular emphasis is given to the truncation operations that are essential for efficient numerical simulations of flexible spacecraft, due to the necessarily large number of coordinates employed in a finite element description. A theorem is developed which establishes necessary conditions for the commutativity of the required truncation and inversion operations. The recommended alternative for the rotating elastic appendage is a complex transformation with previously published orthogonality properties, which permit the derivation in this paper of a relatively simple explicit set of transformed and truncated equations of modal vibration in real variables.

Likins, P.↗

Utilizing semantic networks to database and retrieve generalized stochastic colored Petri nets

Previous work has introduced the Planning Coordinator (PCOORD), a coordinator functioning within the hierarchy of the Intelligent Machine Mode. Within the structure of the Planning Coordinator resides the Primitive Structure Database (PSDB) functioning to provide the primitive structures utilized by the Planning Coordinator in the establishing of error recovery or on-line path plans. This report further explores the Primitive Structure Database and establishes the potential of utilizing semantic networks as a means of efficiently storing and retrieving the Generalized Stochastic Colored Petri Nets from which the error recovery plans are derived.

Farah, Jeffrey J.↗

Multidisciplinary optimization of controlled space structures with global sensitivity equations

A new method for the preliminary design of controlled space structures is presented. The method coordinates standard finite element structural analysis, multivariable controls, and nonlinear programming codes and allows simultaneous optimization of the structures and control systems of a spacecraft. Global sensitivity equations are a key feature of this method. The preliminary design of a generic geostationary platform is used to demonstrate the multidisciplinary optimization method. Fifteen design variables are used to optimize truss member sizes and feedback gain values. The goal is to reduce the total mass of the structure and the vibration control system while satisfying constraints on vibration decay rate. Incorporating the nonnegligible mass of actuators causes an essential coupling between structural design variables and control design variables. The solution of the demonstration problem is an important step toward a comprehensive preliminary design capability for structures and control systems. Use of global sensitivity equations helps solve optimization problems that have a large number of design variables and a high degree of coupling between disciplines.

Padula, Sharon L.↗

Plasma properties and magnetic field structure of the solar corona, based on coordinated Max 1991 observations from SERTS, the VLA, and magnetographs

The purposes of this investigation are to use existing, calibrated, coaligned sets of coordinated multiwaveband observations of the Sun to determine the coronal magnetic field strength and structure, and interpret the collective observations in terms of a self-consistent model of the coronal plasma and magnetic field. This information is vital to understanding processes such as coronal heating, solar wind acceleration, pre-flare energy storage, and active region evolution. Understanding these processes is the central theme of Max '91, the NASA-supported series of solar observing campaigns under which the observations acquired for this work were obtained. The observations came from NASA/GSFC's Solar EUV Rocket Telescope and Spectrograph (SERTS), the Very Large Array (VLA), and magnetographs. The technique of calculating the coronal magnetic field is to establish the contributions to the microwave emission from the two main emission mechanisms: thermal bremsstrahlung and thermal gyroemission. This is done by using the EUV emission to determine values of the coronal plasma quantities needed to calculate the thermal bremsstrahlung contribution to the microwave emission. Once the microwave emission mechanism(s) are determined, the coronal magnetic field can be calculated. A comparison of the coronal magnetic field derived from the coordinated multiwaveband observations with extrapolations from photospheric magnetograms will provide insight into the nature of the coronal magnetic field.

Brosius, Jeffrey W.↗

Performance Data Report: Space Medicine Division, Human Research Program, Behavioural Health and Performance Research Element

This report is the result of a collaborative effort between NASA?s Behavioral Health & Performance (BHP) Research and Operations Group to investigate and determine the availability of data pertaining to behavioral performance (and other pertinent variables) that have been collected by the laboratories at NASA?s Johnson Space Center. BHP?s Operations and Research groups collaborated to systematically identify what types of performance data are needed in relevant BHP performance domains and also to conduct structured interviews with NASA personnel to identify which data do or do not exist currently (and for instances where such data exist, to evaluate the type, quality, accessibility, and confidentiality of those data). The authors defined outcome categories of performance that encapsulate BHP performance domains, mapped BHP Research Risks and Gaps onto those performance outcome categories, and identified and prioritized indicators for each outcome category. The team identified key points of contact (subject matter experts [SMEs]) as potential interviewees, created a template for structured interview questions about sources and accessibility of performance data, and coordinated and conducted structured interviews with the SMEs. The methodology, results, and implications of this effort, as well as forward work needed, are discussed in this report.

Shea, Camille↗

Preliminary results from the Coronal Magnetic Structures Observing Campaign (CoMStOC)

Coordinated multiwaveband observations of five new cycle active regions were obtained during the Coronal Magnetic Structures Observing Campaign in 1987. SMM X-ray polychromater maps provided accurate temperature and emission measure diagnostics, and VLA maps provided information on microwave structure, spectrum, and polarization. The results were used to separate contributions from the two dominant microwave emission mechanisms, thermal bremsstrahlung and gyroresonance.

Schmelz, J. T.↗

Dot-Projection Photogrammetry and Videogrammetry of Gossamer Space Structures

This paper documents the technique of using hundreds or thousands of projected dots of light as targets for photogrammetry and videogrammetry of gossamer space structures. Photogrammetry calculates the three-dimensional coordinates of each target on the structure, and videogrammetry tracks the coordinates versus time. Gossamer structures characteristically contain large areas of delicate, thin-film membranes. Examples include solar sails, large antennas, inflatable solar arrays, solar power concentrators and transmitters, sun shields, and planetary balloons and habitats. Using projected-dot targets avoids the unwanted mass, stiffness, and installation costs of traditional retroreflective adhesive targets. Four laboratory applications are covered that demonstrate the practical effectiveness of white-light dot projection for both static-shape and dynamic measurement of reflective and diffuse surfaces, respectively. Comparisons are made between dot-projection videogrammetry and traditional laser vibrometry for membrane vibration measurements. The paper closes by introducing a promising extension of existing techniques using a novel laser-induced fluorescence approach.

Pappa, Richard S.↗

Multi-disciplinary optimization of aeroservoelastic systems

New methods were developed for efficient aeroservoelastic analysis and optimization. The main target was to develop a method for investigating large structural variations using a single set of modal coordinates. This task was accomplished by basing the structural modal coordinates on normal modes calculated with a set of fictitious masses loading the locations of anticipated structural changes. The following subject areas are covered: (1) modal coordinates for aeroelastic analysis with large local structural variations; and (2) time simulation of flutter with large stiffness changes.

Karpel, Mordechay↗

Multidisciplinary optimization of a controlled space structure using 150 design variables

A general optimization-based method for the design of large space platforms through integration of the disciplines of structural dynamics and control is presented. The method uses the global sensitivity equations approach and is especially appropriate for preliminary design problems in which the structural and control analyses are tightly coupled. The method is capable of coordinating general purpose structural analysis, multivariable control, and optimization codes, and thus, can be adapted to a variety of controls-structures integrated design projects. The method is used to minimize the total weight of a space platform while maintaining a specified vibration decay rate after slewing maneuvers.

James, Benjamin B.↗

The spatial and logical organization of devices in an advanced industrial robot system

This paper describes the geometrical and device organization of a robot system which is based in part upon transformations of Cartesian frames and exchangeable device tree structures. It discusses coordinate frame transformations, geometrical device representation and solution degeneracy along with the data structures which support the exchangeable logical-physical device assignments. The system, which has been implemented in a minicomputer, supports vision, force, and other sensors. It allows tasks to be instantiated with logically equivalent devices and it allows tasks to be defined relative to appropriate frames. Since these frames are, in turn, defined relative other frames this organization provides a significant simplification in task specification and a high degree of system modularity.

Ruoff, C. F.↗

R6 Hexameric Insulin Complexed with m-Cresol or Rescorcinol

The structures of three R6 human insulin hexamers have been determined. Crystals of monoclinic m-cresol/insulin, monoclinic resorcinol/insulin, and rhombohedral m-cresol/insulin crystals diffracted to 1.9, 1.9 and 1,78 Angstroms, respectively, and have been refined to residuals of 0.195, 0.179, and 0.200, respectively. In all three structures, a phenolic derivative is found to occupy the phenolic binding site where it forms hydrogen bonds to the carbonyl oxygen of A6 Cys and the nitrogen of A11 Cys. Two additional phenolic derivative binding sites were identified within or between hexamers. The structures of all three hexamers are nearly identical although a large displacement of the N-terminus of one B-chain in both monoclinic structures results from coordination to a sodium ion which is located between symmetry related hexamers. Other minor differences in structure are a consequence of differences in packing in the monoclinic cell as compared to the rhombohedral cell. Based upon the differences in conformation of the B13 Glu side chains in T6, T3R3, and R6 hexamers, the deprotonation of these side chains appears to be associated with the T (right arrow) R conformational transition.

Smith, G. David↗

Measurements of Aerodynamic Damping in the MIT Transonic Rotor

A method was developed and demonstrated for the direct measurement of aerodynamic forcing and aerodynamic damping of a transonic compressor. The method is based on the inverse solution of the structural dynamic equations of motion of the blade disk system in order to determine the forces acting on the system. The disturbing and damping forces acting on a given blade are determined if the equations of motion are expressed in individual blade coordinates. If the structural dynamic equations are transformed to multiblade coordinates, the damping can be measured for blade disk modes, and related to a reduced frequency and interblade phase angle. In order to measure the aerodynamic damping in this way, the free response to a known excitation is studied.

Crawley, E. F.↗

Krylov model reduction algorithm for undamped structural dynamics systems

Krylov vectors furnish an efficient basis for eigenvalue analysis and model reduction of structural dynamics systems. The reduced-order model obtained by the present Krylov model-reduction algorithm for an undamped structural-dynamics system is found to match low-frequency moments. The transformed system equation in Krylov coordinates reflects the structure of a tandem system.

Craig, Roy R., Jr.↗

Multistep modeling of protein structure: application to bungarotoxin

Modelling of bungarotoxin in atomic details is presented in this article. The model-building procedure utilizes the low-resolution crystal coordinates of the c-alpha atoms of bungarotoxin, sequence homology within the neurotoxin family, as well as high-resolution x-ray diffraction data of cobratoxin and erabutoxin. Our model-building procedure involves: (a) principles of comparative modelling, (b) embedding procedures of distance geometry, and (c) use of molecular mechanics for optimizing packing. The model is not only consistent with the c-alpha coordinates of crystal structure, but also agrees with solution conformational features of the triple-stranded beta sheet as observed by NOE measurements.

NASA Discipline Exobiology↗