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At least 595 records · Page 33

Investigation of environmental indices from the Earth Resources Technology Satellite

The author has identified the following significant results. Land use, quality, and air quality trends are being deduced from both ERTS-1 MSS and computer compatible tapes. The data analysis plan and the preliminary data analysis phase were conducted in January 1973. Results from these two phases are: (1) Method of analysis has been selected and checked out. (2) Land use for two dates have been generated for one test site. (3) Water quality for one date has been produced partially. (4) Air quality for three has been produced and compared with ground truth. (5) One of the two DCP stations is in operation; the second station will be installed in March 1973. Land use classification exceeds pre-launch expectations. Water quality (turbidity) is not progressing as expected. Finally, mesoscale air quality results have shown correlation with NOAA/EPA turbidity network. If air quality correlations continue to show favorable results, a rapid means of global turbidity may be available from ERTS-1 MSS observations.

Greeley, R. S.↗

The Nature of the Soft X-ray Emitting Region in the Direction of the North Polar Spur

The spatial structure of the X-ray sky in the direction of the North Polar Spur was examined in two energy bands, the B band (0.10 to 0.18 keV) and the C band (0.15 to 0.28 keV). A model with two emitting regions, one local with unabsorbed emission, and the other more distant with emission partially absorbed by spatially varying amounts was investigated. Using the distribution of atomic hydrogen as a measure of absorbing material, this model was used to predict the flux in the direction of the North Polar Spur. The predicted flux was compared to the data obtained from several sounding rocket flights. The derived flux was found to correlate well with the observed data.

Morrison, J. P.↗

Explosive volcanism and the compositions of the cores of differentiated asteroids

Eleven iron meteorite groups showing correlations between Ni and siderophile trace elements that are predictable by distribution coefficients between liquid and solid metal of fractionally crystallizing metal magmas, are interpreted to be fragments of the fractionally crystallized cores of 11 differentiated asteroids. Many of these groups crystallized from S-depleted magmas which we propose resulted from removal of the first partial melt (a Fe,Ni-FeS cotectic) by explosive pyroclastic volcanism. It is shown that these dense, negatively buoyant melts can be driven to asteroidal surfaces by the combination of an excess pressure in the melt and the presence of buoyant bubbles of gas which decrease the bulk density of the melt. It is also shown that in typical asteroidal materials, veins will form which grow into dikes and serve as pathways for migration of melt and gas to asteroidal surfaces. Since cotectic Fe,Ni-FeS melt consists of about 85 wt. percent FeS and 15 wt. percent Fe,Ni, removal of small volumes of eutectic melts results in major loss of S but only minor loss of Fe,Ni, thus leaving sufficient Fe,Ni to form sizeable asteroidal cores.

Keil, Klaus↗

Remotely Sensing Larval Population Dynamics of Rice Field Anophelines

The primary objective of both studies was to determine if RS and GIS techniques could be used to distinguish between high and low larval-producing rice fields in California. Results of the first study suggested that early-season green-up and proximity to livestock pastures were positively correlated with high larval abundance. Based on the early-season spectral differences between high and low larval-producing fields, it appeared that canopy development and tillering influenced mosquito habitat quality. At that time, rice fields consisted of a mixture of plants and water, a combination that allowed An. freeborni females to lay eggs in partial sunlight, protected from both predators and wind. This established a population earlier in the season than in other, 'less-green' fields where tillering and plant emergence was too minimal for ovipositioning. The study also indicated the importance of the distance that a mosquito would have to fly in order to take a bloodmeal prior to ovipositing. These associations were fully explored in an expanded study two years later. The second study confirmed the positive relationship between early season canopy development and larval abundance, and also demonstrated the relationship between abundance and distance-to-pasture. The association between greenness (as measured using NDVI), distance-to-pasture, and abundance is illustrated. The second study also indicated the siginificance of the landscape context of rice fields for larval production. Fields that included opportunities for feeding and resting within the flight range of the mosquito had higher abundances than did fields that were in a homogeneous rice area.

Beck, Louisa R.↗

Technical Report Series on Global Modeling and Data Assimilation: Global Surface Ocean Carbon Estimates in a Model Forced by MERRA - Volume 31

MERRA products were used to force an established ocean biogeochemical model to estimate surface carbon inventories and fluxes in the global oceans. The results were compared to public archives of in situ carbon data and estimates. The model exhibited skill for ocean dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), partial pressure of ocean CO2 (pCO2) and air-sea fluxes (FCO2). The MERRA-forced model produced global mean differences of 0.02% (approximately 0.3 microns) for DIC, -0.3% (about -1.2 (micro) atm; model lower) for pCO2, and -2.3% (-0.003 mol C/sq m/y) for FCO2 compared to in situ estimates. Basin-scale distributions were significantly correlated with observations for all three variables (r=0.97, 0.76, and 0.73, P<0.05, respectively for DIC, pCO2, and FCO2). All major oceanographic basins were represented as sources to the atmosphere or sinks in agreement with in situ estimates. However, there were substantial basin-scale and local departures.

Gregg, Watson W.↗

Water in the Lithospheric Mantle Beneath a Phanerozoic Continental Belt: FTIR Analyses of Alligator Lake Xenoliths (Yukon, Canada)

Water in the mantle influences melting, metasomatism, viscosity and electrical conductivity. The Alligator Lake mantle xenolith suite is one of three bimodal peridotite suites from the northern Canadian Cordillera brought to the surface by alkali basalts, i.e., it consists of chemically distinct lherzolites and harzburgites. The lherzolites have equilibration temperatures about 50 C lower than the harzburgites and are thought to represent the fertile upper mantle of the region. The harzburgites might have come from slightly deeper in the mantle and/or be the result of a melting event above an asthenospheric upwelling detected as a seismic anomaly at 400-500 km depth. Major and trace element data are best interpreted as the lherzolite mantle having simultaneously experienced 20-25% partial melting and a metasomatic event to create the harzburgites. Well-characterized xenoliths are being analyzed for water by FTIR. Harzburgites contain 29-52 ppm H2O in orthopyroxene (opx) and (is) approximately140 ppm H2O in clinopyroxene (cpx). The lherzolites have H2O contents of 27-150 ppm in opx and 46-361 ppm in cpx. Despite correlating with enrichments in LREE, the water contents of the harzburgite pyroxenes are low relative to those of typical peridotite xenoliths, suggesting that the metasomatic agents were water-poor, contrarily to what has been suggested before. The water content of cpx is about double that of opx indicating equilibrium. Olivine water contents are low ((is) less than 5 ppm H2O) and out of equilibrium with those of opx and cpx, which may be due to H loss during xenolith ascent. This is consistent with olivines containing more water in their cores than their rims. Olivines exclusively exhibit water bands in the 3400-3000 cm-1 range, which may be indicative of a reduced environment.

Gelber, McKensie↗

Stochastic Modeling and Generation of Partially Polarized or Partially Coherent Electromagnetic Waves

Many new Earth remote-sensing instruments are embracing both the advantages and added complexity that result from interferometric or fully polarimetric operation. To increase instrument understanding and functionality a model of the signals these instruments measure is presented. A stochastic model is used as it recognizes the non-deterministic nature of any real-world measurements while also providing a tractable mathematical framework. A stationary, Gaussian-distributed model structure is proposed. Temporal and spectral correlation measures provide a statistical description of the physical properties of coherence and polarization-state. From this relationship the model is mathematically defined. The model is shown to be unique for any set of physical parameters. A method of realizing the model (necessary for applications such as synthetic calibration-signal generation) is given and computer simulation results are presented. The signals are constructed using the output of a multi-input multi-output linear filter system, driven with white noise.

Davis, Brynmor↗

Scattering equations in AdS: scalar correlators in arbitrary dimensions

We introduce a bosonic ambitwistor string theory in AdS space. Even though the theory is anomalous at the quantum level, one can nevertheless use it in the classical limit to derive a novel formula for correlation functions of boundary CFT operators in arbitrary space-time dimensions. The resulting construction can be treated as a natural extension of the CHY formalism for the flat-space S-matrix, as it similarly expresses tree-level amplitudes in AdS as integrals over the moduli space of Riemann spheres with punctures. These integrals localize on an operator-valued version of scattering equations, which we derive directly from the ambitwistor string action on a coset manifold. As a testing ground for this formalism we focus on the simplest case of ambitwistor string coupled to two cur- rent algebras, which gives bi-adjoint scalar correlators in AdS. In order to evaluate them directly, we make use of a series of contour deformations on the moduli space of punctured Riemann spheres and check that the result agrees with tree level Witten diagram computations to all multiplicity. We also initiate the study of eigenfunctions of scattering equations in AdS, which interpolate between conformal partial waves in different OPE channels, and point out a connection to an elliptic deformation of the Calogero-Sutherland model.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗

Assessing physics of ion temperature gradient turbulence via hierarchical reduced-model representations

In this work, the saturation physics of ion temperature gradient (ITG) turbulence is probed by studying how amplitudes and scalings with key parameters vary across a hierarchy of reduced models. The models derive from nonlinear fluid equations for toroidal ITG turbulence under approximations to the mode coupling interactions in wavenumber space and the representation of turbulent decorrelation. Mode coupling approximations include local-in-wavenumber treatments like the spectral density of flux in quasilinear theory, a truncation to three nonlinearly interacting waves, and the interactions in a cascade to high radial wavenumber mediated by a single zonal flow. Turbulent decorrelation treatments are based on the triplet correlation time with and without eddy damping. Model fidelity is assessed by the scalings and magnitudes of the squared amplitudes of unstable mode, stable mode, and zonal flow with respect to the flow-damping rate and temperature gradient. It is shown that all models reproduce fundamental scalings, provided they incorporate the coupling of unstable mode, stable mode, and zonal flow. Accurate amplitude prediction requires eddy damping in the triplet correlation time and proper representation of the zonal-flow drive by interactions associated with the radial wavenumber cascade.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Correlation of ERTS multispectral imagery with suspended matter and chlorophyll in lower Chesapeake Bay

The feasibility of using multispectral satellite imagery to monitor the characteristics of estuarine waters is being investigated. Preliminary comparisons of MSS imagery with suspended matter concentrations, particle counts, chlorophyll, transmittance and bathymetry have been made. Some visual correlation of radiance with particulates and chlorophyll has been established. Effects of bathymetry are present, and their relation to transmittance and radiance is being investigated. Greatest detail in suspended matter is revealed by MSS band 5. Near-surface suspended sediment load and chlorophyll can be observed in bands 6 and 7. Images received to date have partially defined extent and location of high suspensate concentrations. Net quantity of suspended matter in the lower Bay has been decreasing since the inception of the study, and represents the diminution of turbid flood waters carried into the Bay in late September, 1972. The results so far point to the utility of MSS imagery in monitoring estuarine water character for the assessment of siltation, productivity, and water types.

Bowker, D. E.↗

Combustion of hydrogen injected into a supersonic airstream (a guide to the HISS computer program)

A computer program based on a finite-difference, implicit numerical integration scheme is described for the prediction of hydrogen injected into a supersonic airstream at an angle ranging from normal to parallel to the airstream main flow direction. Results of calculations for flow and thermal property distributions were compared with 'cold flow data' taken by NASA/Langley and show excellent correlation. Typical results for equilibrium combustion are presented and exhibit qualitatively plausible behavior. Computer time required for a given case is approximately one minute on a CDC 7600. A discussion of the assumption of parabolic flow in the injection region is given which demonstrates that improvement in calculation in this region could be obtained by a partially-parabolic procedure which has been developed. It is concluded that the technique described provides an efficient and reliable means for analyzing hydrogen injection into supersonic airstreams and the subsequent combustion.

Dyer, D. F.↗

Simulation and Optimization of Vacuum Swing Adsorption Units for Spacesuit Carbon Dioxide and Humidity Control

Controlling carbon dioxide (CO2) and humidity levels in a spacesuit is critical to ensuring both the safety and comfort of an astronaut during extra-vehicular activity (EVA). Traditionally, this has been accomplished utilizing non-regenerative lithium hydroxide (LiOH) or regenerative metal oxide (MetOx) canisters which pose a significant weight burden. Although such technology enables air revitalization, the volume requirements to store the waste canisters as well as the mass to transport multiple units become prohibitive as mission durations increase. Consequently, motivation exists toward developing a fully regenerative technology for environmental control. The application of solid amine materials with vacuum swing adsorption technology has shown the capacity to control CO2 and concomitantly manage humidity levels through a fully regenerative cycle eliminating mission constraints imposed with non-regenerative technologies. Experimental results for full-size and sub-scale test articles have been collected and are described herein. In order to accelerate the developmental efforts, an axially-dispersed plug ow model with an accompanying energy balance has been established and correlated with the experimental data. The experimental and simulation results display good agreement for a variety of ow rates (110-170 SLM), replicated metabolic challenges (100-590 Watts), and atmosphere pressures under consideration for the spacesuit (248 and 760 mm Hg). The relationship between swing adsorption cycles for an outlet criterion of 6.0 mm Hg of CO2 partial pressure has been established for each metabolic challenge. In addition, variable metabolic profiles were imposed on the test articles in order to assess the ability of the technology to transition to new operational constraints. The advent of the model provides the capacity to apply computer-aided engineering practices to support the ongoing efforts to optimize and mature this technology for future application to space exploration.

Swickrath, Michael J.↗

Using Machine Learning to Predict Cloud Turbulent Entrainment–Mixing Processes

Different turbulent entrainment–mixing mechanisms between clouds and environment are essential to cloud–related processes; however, accurate representation of entrainment–mixing in weather/climate models still poses a challenge. This study exploits the use of machine learning (ML) to address this challenge. Four ML (Light Gradient Boosting Machine [LGB], eXtreme Gradient Boosting, Random Forest, and Support Vector Regression) are examined and compared. It is found that LGB performs best, and thus is selected to understand the impact of entrainment–mixing on microphysics using simulation data from Explicit Mixing Parcel Model. Compared with traditional parameterizations, the trained LGB provides more accurate microphysical properties (number concentration and cloud droplet spectral dispersion). The partial dependences of predicted microphysics on features exhibit a strong alignment with physical mechanisms and expectations, as determined by the interpreting method, thus overcoming the limitations of the “black box” scheme. The underlying mechanisms are that the smaller number concentration and larger spectral dispersion correspond to more inhomogeneous entrainment–mixing. Specifically, number concentration after entrainment–mixing is positively correlated with adiabatic number concentration and liquid water content affected by entrainment–mixing, and inversely correlated with adiabatic volume mean radius. Spectral dispersion after entrainment–mixing is negatively correlated with liquid water content affected by entrainment–mixing, turbulent dissipation rate and relative humidity of entrained air. Sensitivity analysis further suggests that number concentration is mainly determined by cloud microphysical properties whereas spectral dispersion is influenced by both cloud microphysical properties and environmental variables. The results indicate that the LGB scheme has the potential to enhance the representation of entrainment–mixing in weather/climate models.

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES↗

Stochastic modeling of x-ray superfluorescence

An approach to modeling the dynamics of x-ray amplified spontaneous emission and superfluorescence, the phenomenon of collective x-ray emission initiated by intense pulses of x-ray free-electron lasers, is developed based on stochastic partial differential equations. The equations are derived from first principles, and the relevant approximations, derivation steps, and extensions specific to stimulated x-ray emission are presented. The resulting equations take the form of three-dimensional generalized Maxwell-Bloch equations augmented with noise terms for both field and atomic variables. The derived noise terms possess specific correlation properties that enable the correct reconstruction of spontaneous emission. Consequently, the developed theoretical formalism is universally suitable for describing all stages of stimulated x-ray emission: spontaneous emission, amplified spontaneous emission, and superfluorescence. Here, we present numerical examples that illustrate various properties of the emitted field, including spatiotemporal coherence and spectral-angular and polarization characteristics. We anticipate that the proposed theoretical framework will establish a robust foundation for interpreting measurements in stimulated x-ray emission spectroscopy, modeling x-ray laser oscillators, and describing other experiments leveraging x-ray superfluorescence.

74 ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS↗

Understanding the field and frequency dependence of rf loss in SRF cavities

SRF cavities subjected to heat treatment below 200 °C in the presence of nitrogen showed an improvement in quality factor while maintaining an accelerating gradient above 25 MV/m. Here, we report the rf performance of several single-cell superconducting radio frequency cavities with frequency ranging from 0.75 - 3.0 GHz subjected to low temperature heat treatment in nitrogen environment. The cavities were treated at temperature 120 - 175 oC for 24 - 48 hours in low partial pressure of ultra-pure nitrogen gas. The improvement in Q? with Q-rise was observed when nitrogen gas was injected ~300 °C during the furnace treatment. The surface modification was confirmed by the change in electronic mean free path and near surface elemental analysis by SIMS. The field dependence of the rf losses is strongly correlated to the cavity frequency. The analysis of experimental data with available theoretical models as well as comparison with similar study on high temperature nitrogen doped cavities will be presented.

Ciovati, Gianluigi↗

Analysis of transonic flow about harmonically oscillating airfoils and wings

A finite difference method for analyzing the unsteady transonic flow about harmonically oscillating wings is discussed. The procedure is based on separating the velocity potential into steady and unsteady parts and linearizing the resulting partial differential equations for small disturbances. Initial solutions were obtained using relaxation procedures, but the solution range proved to be limited in terms of Mach number and reduced frequency. Recent two-dimensional results are presented which have been obtained with direct solution procedures in which the difference equations are solved 'all at once' and these provide reasonable correlation for practical values of Mach number and reduced frequency.

Weatherill, W. H.↗

Estimating the exceedance probability of rain rate by logistic regression

Recent studies have shown that the fraction of an area with rain intensity above a fixed threshold is highly correlated with the area-averaged rain rate. To estimate the fractional rainy area, a logistic regression model, which estimates the conditional probability that rain rate over an area exceeds a fixed threshold given the values of related covariates, is developed. The problem of dependency in the data in the estimation procedure is bypassed by the method of partial likelihood. Analyses of simulated scanning multichannel microwave radiometer and observed electrically scanning microwave radiometer data during the Global Atlantic Tropical Experiment period show that the use of logistic regression in pixel classification is superior to multiple regression in predicting whether rain rate at each pixel exceeds a given threshold, even in the presence of noisy data. The potential of the logistic regression technique in satellite rain rate estimation is discussed.

Chiu, Long S.↗

Explosive volcanism and the compositions of cores of differentiated asteroids

Eleven iron meteorite groups show correlations between Ni and siderophile trace elements that are predictable by distribution coefficients between liquid and solid metal in fractionally crystallizing metal magmas. These meteorites are interpreted to be fragments of the fractionally crystallized cores of eleven differentiated asteroids. Many of these groups crystallized from S-depleted magmas which we propose resulted from removal of the first partial melt (the Fe,Ni-FeS cotectic melt) by explosive pyroclastic volcanism of the type envisaged by Wilson and Keil (1991). We show that these dense, negatively buoyant melts can be driven to asteroidal surfaces due to the presence of excess pressure in the melt and the presence of buoyant bubbles of gas which decrease the density of the melt. We also show that, in typical asteroidal materials, veins will form which grow into dikes and serve as pathways for migration of melt and gas to asteroidal surfaces. Since cotectic Fe, Ni-FeS melt consists of about 85 wt pct FeS and 15 wt pct Fe, Ni, removal of small volumes of eutectic melts results in major loss of S but only minor loss of Fe,Ni, thus leaving sufficient Fe,Ni to form sizeable asteroidal cores.

Keil, Klaus↗