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At least 685 records · Page 38

Isotopic anomalies in the galactic cosmic-ray source

Observations of the isotopic compositions of oxygen, neon and magnesium nuclei in galactic cosmic rays are presented and discussed in terms of nucleosynthesis at the galactic cosmic ray source. The observations, made with a charged-particle telescope carried aboard ISEE-3, show enhancements in the Ne-22/Ne-20, Mg-25/Mg-24 and Mg-26/Mg-24 ratios with respect to solar system abundances by factors of 4.1, 1.6 and 1.6, respectively. The data thus demonstrate that the galactic cosmic ray source is compositionally distinct from the solar system, and also rule out the models of Woolsey and Weaver (in press) for the synthesis of excess Ne-22 and a model of normal star formation, evolution and mass loss in a region enriched in metals.

Wiedenbeck, M. E.↗

Latitude-dependent sensitivity to stationary perturbations in simple climate models

The steady-state zonally averaged climate is perturbed by adding a latitude-dependent heat source to an energy balance equation of the simplified Budyko-Sellers type. The latitude of the ice edge, which is attached to an isotherm, becomes dependent on the strength of the perturbation. This dependence is given in terms of the well-known iceline-solar constant relation, and the latitude dependence of the perturbed temperature field is then uniquely determined. The exact analytical solution is linearized and expressed in terms of a superposition of line sources at various latitudes. The main features are: (1) The total temperature response is a sum of the direct effect of the perturbation and an indirect ice-albedo effect proportional to the solar ice-edge sensitivity; and (2) the indirect feedback effect produces an enhanced response in polar latitudes.

Salmun, H.↗

The nature of the source of CO in Comet P/Halley

We show by numerical simulations that the CO distribution in the coma of Comet P/Halley as measured by neutral gas mass spectrometer aboard Giotto spacecraft (P. Eberhardt et al., 1987) can be explained by an extended jet source originating from vent 1 in the rotational model of M. J. S. Belton et al. (1991). This is an alternative interpretation for the origin of the CO distribution where Eberhardt et al. (1987) explained the observations in terms of a spherically symmetric extended source function. We still find nearly 1/3 of CO is due to CO sublimating directly at the nucleus, possibly from the vent itself. Approximately 50% of CO that originates in the extended jet source may be formed via photolysis of H2CO while the rest can be due to CO trapped in grain mantels and other C=O-bearing molecules. The overall production rates of CO in the two models differ by less than 29%. The prediction of the jet source model compares satisfactorily with the distribution of CO observed in the coma by the IUE satellite but unfortunately does not allow one to discriminate between the two models.

Samarasinha, Nalin H.↗

Final Master's Project Advised by Jiri Tichy on Architectural Acoustics

Jiri Tichy's interest and expertise in architectural acoustics research led to the formulation of a Master’s student project on the irregularity of low-frequency response in small rooms. The numerical study conducted under the guidance of Dr. Tichy by the present author addressed how to decrease the low-frequency sound field variability using a loudspeaker source with constant sound power radiation. A summary of the research results will be presented in terms of standard deviation, as a function of source position, receiver position, and room absorption. In addition, the presentation will include how this research experience instilled in the author a desire to continue pursuing acoustics research.

acoustics↗

Investigation of alternate power source for Space Shuttle Orbiter hydraulic system

This investigation consists of a short-term feasibility study to determine whether or not an alternate electrical power source would trade favorably from a performance, reliability, safety, operation, and weight standpoint in replacing the current auxiliary power unit subsystems with its attendant components (water spray boiler, hydrazine fuel and tanks, feed and vent lines, controls, etc.), operating under current flight rules. Results of this feasibility study are used to develop recommendations for the next step (e.g., to determine if such an alternate electrical power source would show an advantage given that the current operational flight mode of the system could be modified in such a way as not to constrain the operational capability and safety of the vehicle). However, this next step is not within the scope of this investigation. This study does not include a cost analysis, nor does it include investigation of the integration aspects involved in such a trade, except in a qualitative sense for the determination of concept feasibility.

Simon, William E.↗

Characterizing Black Hole Mergers

Binary black hole mergers are a promising source of gravitational waves for interferometric gravitational wave detectors. Recent advances in numerical relativity have revealed the predictions of General Relativity for the strong burst of radiation generated in the final moments of binary coalescence. We explore features in the merger radiation which characterize the final moments of merger and ringdown. Interpreting the waveforms in terms of an rotating implicit radiation source allows a unified phenomenological description of the system from inspiral through ringdown. Common features in the waveforms allow quantitative description of the merger signal which may provide insights for observations large-mass black hole binaries.

Baker, John↗

The Steady Spin-down Rate of 4U 1907+09

Using X-ray data from the Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer, we report the pulse timing results of the accretion-powered, high-mass X-ray binary pulsar 4UU 1907+09, covering a time-span of almost two years. We measured three new pulse periods in addition to the previously measured four pulse periods. We are able to connect pulse arrival times in phase for more than a year. The source has been spinning down almost at a constant rate, with a spin-down rate of v = (- 3.54 +/- 0.02) x 10(exp -14) Hz s(exp -1) for more than 15 yr. Residuals of pulse arrival times yield a very low level of random-walk noise, with a strength of approximately 2 x 10(exp -20) rad(exp 2) s(exp -3) on a time-scale of 383 d, which is 40 times lower than that of the high-mass X-ray binary pulsar Vela X-1. The noise strength is only a factor of five greater than that of the low-mass X-ray binary pulsar 4U 1626-67. The low level of the timing noise and the very stable spin-down rate of 4U 1907+09 make this source unique among the high-mass X-ray binary pulsars, providing another example, in addition to 4U 1626-67, of long-term quiet spin down from an accruing source. These examples show that the extended quiet spin-down episodes observed in the anomalous X-ray pulsars 1RXS J170849.0-400910 and 1E 2259+586 do not necessarily imply that these sources are not accreting pulsars.

Baykal, Altan↗

HCO emission from H II-molecular cloud interface regions

A survey of well-known molecular clouds in the four strongest HCO N(k-,k+) = 1(01)-O(60) hyperfine transitions has been carried out to determine the prevalence of HCO and to study its chemistry. HCO emission was observed in seven molecular clouds. Three of these, NGC 2264, W49, and NGC 7538, were not previously known sources of HCO. In addition, NGC 2024 and Sgr B2 were mapped and shown to have extensive HCO emission. The survey results show the HCO abundance to be enhanced in H II-molecular cloud interface regions and support a correlation between C(+) and HCO emission. The strength of the HCO emission in NGC 2024 is interpreted in terms of this enhancement and the source structure and proximity to Earth.

Schenewerk, M. S.↗

Acoustic device and method for measuring gas densities

Density measurements can be made in a gas contained in a flow through enclosure by measuring the sound pressure level at a receiver or microphone located near a dipole sound source which is driven at constant velocity amplitude at low frequencies. Analytical results, which are provided in terms of geometrical parameters, wave numbers, and sound source type for systems of this invention, agree well with published data. The relatively simple designs feature a transmitter transducer at the closed end of a small tube and a receiver transducer on the circumference of the small tube located a small distance away from the transmitter. The transmitter should be a dipole operated at low frequency with the kL value preferable less that about 0.3.

Shakkottai, Parthasarathy↗

The frequency and time standard and activities at the Beijing Institute of Radio Metrology and Measurements

Three kinds of frequency measuring systems are described: frequency comparison, phase comparison, and time comparison. With the help of the portable cesium clock in determining the time delay between two stations, a time synchronization, experiment was conducted using the Symphonie satellite. A result with an accuracy of 30 ns and an uncertainty of about 10 ns was obtained. Another experiment, applying the television pulse technique for time synchronization, yielded a result with an error of about 0.5 mu s in 24 hours. In order to measure the short term frequency stability of crystal oscillators or other frequency sources, a rubidium maser atomic frequency standard was developed as well as a short term stability measuring system.

Wang, H. T.↗

Evidence For Quasi-Periodic X-ray Dips From An Ultraluminous X-ray Source: Implications for the Binary Motion

We report results from long-term (approx.1240 days) X-ray (0.3-8.0 keV) monitoring of the ultraluminous X-ray source NGC 5408 X-1 with the Swift/X-Ray Telescope. Here we expand on earlier work by Strohmayer (2009) who used only a part of the present data set. Our primary results are: (1) the discovery of sharp, quasi-periodic, energy-independent dips in the X-ray intensity that recur on average every 243 days, (2) the detection of an energy dependent (variability amplitude decreases with increasing energy), quasi-sinusoidal X-ray modulation with a period of 112.6 +/- 4 days, the amplitude of which weakens during the second half of the light curve, and (3) spectral evidence for an increase in photoelectric absorption during the last continuous segment of the data. We interpret the X-ray modulations within the context of binary motion in analogy to that seen in high-inclination accreting X-ray binaries. If correct, this implies that NGC 5408 X-1 is in a binary with an orbital period of 243 +/- 23 days, in contrast to the 115.5 day quasi-sinusoidal period previously reported by Strohmayer (2009). We discuss the overall X-ray modulation within the framework of accretion via Roche-lobe overflow of the donor star. In addition, if the X-ray modulation is caused by vertically structured obscuring material in the accretion disk, this would imply a high value for the inclination of the orbit. A comparison with estimates from accreting X-ray binaries suggests an inclination > or approx.70deg. We note that, in principle, a precessing accretion disk could also produce the observed X-ray modulations.

Pasham, Dheeraj R.↗

On the long term evolution of white dwarfs in cataclysmic variables and their recurrence times

The relevance of the long term quasi-static evolution of accreting white dwarfs to the outbursts of Z Andromeda-like symbiotics; the masses and accretion rates of classical nova white dwarfs; and the observed properties of white dwarfs detected optically and with IUE in low M dot cataclysmic variables is discussed. A surface luminosity versus time plot for a massive, hot white dwarf bears a remarkable similarity to the outburst behavior of the hot blue source in Z Andromeda. The long term quasi-static models of hot accreting white dwarfs provide convenient constraints on the theoretically permissible parameters to give a dynamical (nova-like) outburst of classic white dwarfs.

Sion, E. M.↗

Acoustic design considerations: Review of rotor acoustic sources

It is not sufficient to optimize a rotor design in terms of a single noise level calculated for a single flight condition and a single measurement location. The various noise sources, their frequency content, amplitude, and directivity as a function of operating condition must be considered. A summary of the frequency ranges, directivity patterns and the most important operational and design parameters for major rotor noise sources is presented. It is difficult to generalize design requirements for rotor noise because the acoustic output varies so widely depending on the noise source, flight condition, measurement location, and frequency range. However, assuming the rotor must lift a fixed nominal payload and operate over a wide range of flight conditions, three general design guidelines can be stated: (1) minimize tip Mach number; (2) minimize blade thickness in the tip region; and (3) minimize gradients in the spanwise lift distribution in the tip region. Constraints on blade thickness, maximum values for hover tip Mach number, advancing tip Mach number and spanwise lift coefficient gradient will be specified during the aerodynamic, dynamic and structural optimization process. The rotor noise sources to be considered include the low frequency loading and thickness noise, and the higher frequency noise due to blade-vortex interactions (BVI). The analyses to be employed will include the comprehensive rotor analysis and design program CAMRAD and the rotor noise prediction program WOPWOP.

Martin, Ruth M.↗

Long-Term Electronic Timer

Timing circuit turns on power source on command, then turns it off again after preset interval. In comparison with prior devices, unit consumes little power and is smaller, lighter in weight, and less complicated. Timer includes oscillator and counter in integrated circuit. Timing interval equals oscillator period multiplied by number of cycles to be counted.

Temple, G.↗

Aerodynamic sound in a relaxing medium

A theory of aerodynamic sound propagation, when inhomogeneities characterized by a relaxation process are present in both the source and propagation region, is formulated. The details of the relaxation process need not be specified at the outset, although the relaxation process is characterized by a relaxation time and by an equilibrium and a frozen sound speed in a propagation region which is otherwise in equilibrium. Propagation is described in terms of a D'Alembertian characterized by the frozen sound speed relaxing toward one characterized by the equilibrium sound speed, while the source is interpreted in terms of a frozen Lighthill stress tensor relaxing toward the equilibrium stress tensor. An appropriate Green's function for the three-dimensional relaxing wave propagation operator is used to construct an exact integral for the aerodynamic sound. The sound generated far from the source is then estimated in terms of the aerodynamic sound source.

Liu, J. T. C.↗

The distribution of linear polarization in Cassiopeia A at wavelengths of 9.8 and 11.1 cm.

Two interferometer investigations of the polarization of Cassiopeia A employed beams of small dimensions as compared with the source. One was made at a wavelength of 9.8 cm and the other, which was more detailed, was made at a wavelength of 11.1 cm. Previous studies of the polarization of Cassiopeia A have covered either shorter wavelengths, where depolarization is small, or longer wavelengths where little polarized radiation remains. Comparison of the results of these studies with the new data near the 10-cm wavelength yields information on the rate of change of the radiation depolarization and the rotation of the plane of the electric vector as functions of wavelength. It is shown that the results can be explained in terms of a model of the source incorporating Faraday depolarization.

Downs, G. S.↗

VLA observations of fine structures in a solar active region at 6 centimeter wavelength

A complex solar active region at 6 cm has been observed with the VLA. Radio images of the region have been constructed and compared with simultaneous optical data from the region. It is found that all radio sources are associated with either sunspots or regions of the corona where strong transverse magnetic fields are likely, that the transverse field sources are brighter than the sunspot sources, and that some of the sunspot sources have a polarized ring structure. The observations are interpreted in terms of thermal gyroresonance emission, with the radiation from the transverse field sources being at the third harmonic of the gyrofrequency and predominantly at the second harmonic from the sunspot sources.

Mcconnell, D.↗

Development of a SMA-Based, Slat-Gap Filler for Airframe Noise Reduction

Noise produced by unsteady flow around aircraft structures, termed airframe noise, is an important source of aircraft noise during the approach and landing phases of flight. Conventional leading-edge-slat devices for high lift on typical transport aircraft are a prominent source of airframe noise. Many concepts for slat noise reduction have been investigated. Slat-cove fillers have emerged as an attractive solution, but they maintain the gap flow, leaving some noise production mechanisms unabated, and thus represent a nonoptimal solution. Drooped-leading-edge (DLE) concepts have been proposed as "optimal" because the gap flow is eliminated. The deployed leading edge device is not distinct and separate from the main wing in DLE concepts and the high-lift performance suffers at high angles of attack (alpha) as a consequence. Elusive high-alpha performance and excessive weight penalty have stymied DLE development. The fact that high-lift performance of DLE systems is only affected at high alpha suggests another concept that simultaneously achieves the high-lift of the baseline airfoil and the noise reduction of DLE concepts. The concept involves utilizing a conventional leading-edge slat device and a deformable structure that is deployed from the leading edge of the main wing and closes the gap between the slat and main wing, termed a slat-gap filler (SGF). The deployable structure consists of a portion of the skin of the main wing and it is driven in conjunction with the slat during deployment and retraction. Benchtop models have been developed to assess the feasibility and to study important parameters. Computational models have assisted in the bench-top model design and provided valuable insight in the parameter space as well as the feasibility.

Turner, Travis L.↗