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At least 919 records · Page 51

Aerodynamic Implications of Aerocapture Systems for Uranus Orbiters

Exploration of the Ice Giants, Uranus in particular, has been indicated as the highest priority new flagship-class mission by the 2022 Planetary Science Decadal Survey. However, due to it’s location in the solar system, extensive travel time and resources are required for a mission to reach Uranus. Aerocapture offers shorter interplanetary transit times and reduced propellant requirements for such a mission when compared to a traditional propulsive-capture orbiter. Considerations for the aerodynamics of an aerocapture system enabling flagship-class science mission to Uranus are presented. The applicability of a low lift-to-drag entry vehicle aeroshell with flight heritage to a new planet and atmosphere is evaluated. A preliminary aerodatabase is formulated from low-fidelity methods and heritage flight mission data to provide initial estimates of trajectory space to be considered for inserting a spacecraft into orbit at Uranus using aerocapture. Computational fluid dynamics calculations in the free molecular, transitional, and continuum regimes using Direct Simulation Monte Carlo and Navier-Stokes solutions are used to assess the validity of this preliminary aerodatabase. The considered entry vehicle is found to varying levels of agreement with work done by previous flight missions when evaluated for flight in Uranus’ atmosphere. Implications for the aerodynamics of this vehicle as applied in an aerocapture system in flight at Uranus as found by the current work are discussed.

Eli R. Shellabarger↗

Aerodynamic Implications of Aerocapture Systems for Uranus Orbiters

Exploration of the Ice Giants, Uranus in particular, has been indicated as the highest priority new flagship-class mission by the 2022 Planetary Science Decadal Survey. However, due to it's location in the solar system, extensive travel time and resources are required for a mission to reach Uranus. Aerocapture offers shorter interplanetary transit times and reduced propellant requirements for such a mission when compared to a traditional propulsive-capture orbiter. Considerations for the aerodynamics of an aerocapture system enabling flagship-class science mission to Uranus are presented. The applicability of a low lift-to-drag entry vehicle aeroshell with flight heritage to a new planet and atmosphere is evaluated. A preliminary aerodatabase is formulated from low-fidelity methods and heritage flight mission data to provide initial estimates of trajectory space to be considered for inserting a spacecraft into orbit at Uranus using aerocapture. Computational fluid dynamics calculations in the free molecular, transitional, and continuum regimes using Direct Simulation Monte Carlo and Navier-Stokes solutions are used to assess the validity of this preliminary aerodatabase. The considered entry vehicle is found to varying levels of agreement with work done by previous flight missions when evaluated for flight in Uranus' atmosphere. Implications for the aerodynamics of this vehicle as applied in an aerocapture system in flight at Uranus as found by the current work are discussed.

Uranus↗

Excited-state spectroscopy of singly, doubly and triply-charmed baryons from lattice QCD

We present the ground and excited state spectra of singly, doubly and triply-charmed baryons by using dynamical lattice QCD. A large set of baryonic operators that respect the symmetries of the lattice and are obtained after subduction from their continuum analogues are utilized. These operators transform as irreducible representations of SU(3)F symmetry for flavour, SU(4) symmetry for Dirac spins of quarks and O(3) symmetry for orbital angular momenta. Using novel computational techniques correlation functions of these operators are generated and the variational method is exploited to extract excited states. The lattice spectra that we obtain have baryonic states with well-defined total spins up to 7/2 and the low lying states remarkably resemble the expectations of quantum numbers from SU(6)ⓍO(3) symmetry.

Padmanath, M.↗

Comparative study of adaptive variational quantum eigensolvers for multi-orbital impurity models

Hybrid quantum-classical embedding methods for correlated materials simulations provide a path towards potential quantum advantage. However, the required quantum resources arising from the multi-band nature of d and f electron materials remain largely unexplored. Here we compare the performance of different variational quantum eigensolvers in ground state preparation for interacting multi-orbital embedding impurity models, which is the computationally most demanding step in quantum embedding theories. Focusing on adaptive algorithms and models with 8 spin-orbitals, we show that state preparation with fidelities better than 99.9% can be achieved using about 2 14 shots per measurement circuit. When including gate noise, we observe that parameter optimizations can still be performed if the two-qubit gate error lies below 10 -3 , which is slightly smaller than current hardware levels. Finally, we measure the ground state energy on IBM and Quantinuum hardware using a converged adaptive ansatz and obtain a relative error of 0.7%.

42 ENGINEERING↗

Astrodynamics 1989; Proceedings of the AAS/AIAA Astrodynamics Conference, Stowe, VT, Aug. 7-10, 1989. Parts 1 & 2

The conference focuses of analytical and numerical aspects of astrodynamics and celestial mechanics with emphasis on planetary mission design, trajectory analysis and design, orbit determination, attitude determination and control, guidance systems, and dynamics and control of large flexible space structures. Trajectory computation techniques, satellite dynamics, and geocentric satellite orbit analysis are presented, along with earth orbiter mission analysis, trajectory optimization applications, planetary spacecraft orbit determination, and orbiting debris considerations. Neutral upper-atmosphere density is addressed, and guidance analysis, planetary mission design and analysis, trajectory analysis, estimation/identification techniques are discussed in addition to the dynamics and control of space structures or multi-body systems.

Thornton, Catherine L.↗

Gridded Hourly Text Products: A TRMM Data Reduction Approach

The quantity of precipitation data from satellite-based observations is a blessing and a curse. The sheer volume of the data makes it difficult for many researchers to use in targeted applications. This volume increases further as algorithm improvements lead to the reprocessing of mission data. In addition to the overall volume of data, the size and format complexity of orbital granules contribute to the difficulty in using all the available data. Finally, the number of different instruments available to measure rainfall and related parameters further contributes to the volume concerns. In summary, we have an embarrassment of riches. The science team of the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) recognized this dilemma and has developed a strategy to address it. The TRMM Science Data and Information System (TSDIS) produces, at the direction of the Joint TRMM Science Team, a number of instantaneous rainfall products. The TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI), the Precipitation Radar and a Combined TMI/PR are the key "instruments" used in this production. Each of these products contains an entire orbit of data. The algorithm code computes not just rain rates but a large number of other physical parameters as well as information needed for monitoring algorithm performance. That makes these products very large. For example, a single orbit of TMI rain rate product is 99 MB, a single orbit of the combined product yields a granule that is 158 MB, while the 80 vertical levels of rain information from the PR yields an orbital product of 253 MB. These are large products that are often difficult for science users to electronically transfer to their sites especially if they want a large period of time. Level 3 gridded products are much smaller, but their 5 or 30 day temporal resolution is insufficient for many researchers. In addition, TRMM standard products are produced in the HDF format. While a large number of user-friendly tools are available to hide the details of the format (including a toolkit developed at TSDIS for the TRMM science team), many potential users shy away

Stocker, Erich↗

Shuttle mission simulator

The simulator was designed to provide real time simulation capability for all phases of the Shuttle Transportation System orbital missions including prelaunch, ascent, onorbit operations, deorbit, entry, approach/landing, and rollout. Full mission continuity is provided in transition between these mission phases. Dual fixed and motion base crew stations, instructor/operator stations, and computer systems allow parallel, simultaneous crew training with either complex capable of being individually integrated with the mission control center. This integrated training capability allows flight control personnel training in the air/ground interface areas of tracking, telemetry (vehicle systems monitoring), uplink command control, and communications. With the exception of the simulated Data Processing System, which utilizes actual flight computers and associated flight software, all orbiter onboard systems are functionally simulated with extensive simulated malfunction capabilities. Additionally, crew out-the-window visual scenes, and aural cues are rigorously simulated.

Olasky, C.↗

Time maintenance of user clocks via the tracking and data relay satellite system

A system is described which uses the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) itself to compare the user satellite clock with a clock at the White Sands station that is referenced to Universal Time Coordinated (UTC). No command of the spacecraft by the system is required, and actual on-board clock corrections are made by the spacecraft control center at its discretion. Computer models were constructed using basic orbital parameters for user and TDRS satellites. With only first-order corrections and simple averaging techniques for constant clock rates, error measurement precision of better than one microsecond was obtained. More sophisticated computations should allow considerable improvement over this.

Whitworth, G.↗

Design and reactivity of pentapyridyl metal complexes for ammonia oxidation

Oxidation of NH3 to N2 by pentapyridyl metal complexes via hydrogen atom abstraction was investigated computationally. Quantum chemical analysis reveals insights on orbital symmetry requirements for efficient NH3 oxidation. The most promising complex, [(PY5)Mo(NH3)]2+, was studied experimentally. It shows conversion of NH3 to N2 upon treatment with 2,4,6-tri-tertbutylphenoxyl radical.

Johnson, Samantha JI↗

Guidance system operations plan for manned CM earth orbital missions using program Skylark 1. Section 2: Data links

A computer program to define the digital uplink and downlink for use in manned command module orbital missions is presented. The subjects discussed are: (1) digital uplink to command module, (2) CMC digital downlink, (3) downlist formats, (4) description of telemetered qualities, (5) flagbits, and (6) effects of Fresh Start (V36) and Hardware Restart on flagword and channel bits.

Hamilton, M. H.↗

A comparison of computed and measured aerodynamic characteristics of a proposed aeroassist flight experiment configuration

The use of experimental or computed data to evaluate the performance of aeroassist orbital transfer vehicles (AOTVs) is discussed. Aerodynamic and surface pressure data are derived from computed flowfield solutions (the HALIS inviscid flowfield code), the Newtonian theory, and ground-based, wind tunnel studies (hypersonic He tunnel, 31-inch Mach 10 tunnel, and a hypersonic CF4 tunnel). The wind tunnel and HALIS models were tested at angles-of-attack that ranged from -10 to 10 deg. The effects of the ellipticity of the nose, the radius of the circular arc, and the angle through which the arc passes on the aerodynamic characteristics of the vehicles are examined. It is observed that the HALIS and CF4 tunnel generated surface pressure on the AOTVs produced the most useful aerodynamic data. Good correlation is obtained for the experimental and computational data; however, the Newtonian results do not correspond to the tunnel/HALIS data.

Weilmuenster, K. J.↗

Users manual for the IMA program

The Impulsive Mission Analysis (IMA) computer program provides a user-friendly means of designing a complete Earth-orbital mission profile using an 80386-based microcomputer. The IMA program produces a trajectory summary, an output file for use by the new Simplex Computation of Optimum Orbital Trajectories (SCOOT) program, and several graphics, including ground tracks on a world map, altitude profiles, relative motion plots, and sunlight/communication timelines. The user can design missions using any combination of three basic types of mission segments: double co-eliptic rendezvous, payload delivery, and payload de-orbit/spacecraft recovery. Each mission segment is divided into one or more transfers, and each transfer is divided into one or more legs, each leg consisting of a coast arc followed by a burn arc.

Williams, D. F.↗

Development of the Lunar and Solar Perturbations in the Motion of an Artificial Satellite

Problems relating to the influence of lunar and solar perturbations on the motion of artificial satellites are analyzed by an extension of Cayley's development of the perturbative function in the lunar theory. In addition, the results are modified for incorporation into the Hansen-type theory used by the NASA Space Computing Center. The theory is applied to the orbits of the Vanguard I and Explorer VI satellites, and the results of detailed computations for these satellites are given together with a physical description of the perturbations in terms of resonance effects.

Musen, P.↗

Simulation of Hypervelocity Impact on Aluminum-Nextel-Kevlar Orbital Debris Shields

An improved hybrid particle-finite element method has been developed for hypervelocity impact simulation. The method combines the general contact-impact capabilities of particle codes with the true Lagrangian kinematics of large strain finite element formulations. Unlike some alternative schemes which couple Lagrangian finite element models with smooth particle hydrodynamics, the present formulation makes no use of slidelines or penalty forces. The method has been implemented in a parallel, three dimensional computer code. Simulations of three dimensional orbital debris impact problems using this parallel hybrid particle-finite element code, show good agreement with experiment and good speedup in parallel computation. The simulations included single and multi-plate shields as well as aluminum and composite shielding materials. at an impact velocity of eleven kilometers per second.

Fahrenthold, Eric P.↗

SAVANT: Solar Array Verification and Analysis Tool Demonstrated

The photovoltaics (PV) industry is now being held to strict specifications, such as end-oflife power requirements, that force them to overengineer their products to avoid contractual penalties. Such overengineering has been the only reliable way to meet such specifications. Unfortunately, it also results in a more costly process than is probably necessary. In our conversations with the PV industry, the issue of cost has been raised again and again. Consequently, the Photovoltaics and Space Environment Effects branch at the NASA Glenn Research Center at Lewis Field has been developing a software tool to address this problem. SAVANT, Glenn's tool for solar array verification and analysis is in the technology demonstration phase. Ongoing work has proven that more efficient and less costly PV designs should be possible by using SAVANT to predict the on-orbit life-cycle performance. The ultimate goal of the SAVANT project is to provide a user-friendly computer tool to predict PV on-orbit life-cycle performance. This should greatly simplify the tasks of scaling and designing the PV power component of any given flight or mission. By being able to predict how a particular PV article will perform, designers will be able to balance mission power requirements (both beginning-of-life and end-of-life) with survivability concerns such as power degradation due to radiation and/or contamination. Recent comparisons with actual flight data from the Photovoltaic Array Space Power Plus Diagnostics (PASP Plus) mission validate this approach.

Chock, Ricaurte↗

Charge noise, spin-orbit coupling, and dephasing of single-spin qubits

Quantum dot quantum computing architectures rely on systems in which inversion symmetry is broken, and spin-orbit coupling is present, causing even single-spin qubits to be susceptible to charge noise. We derive an effective Hamiltonian for the combined action of noise and spin-orbit coupling on a single-spin qubit, identify the mechanisms behind dephasing, and estimate the free induction decay dephasing times T{sub 2}{sup *} for common materials such as Si and GaAs. Dephasing is driven by noise matrix elements that cause relative fluctuations between orbital levels, which are dominated by screened whole charge defects and unscreened dipole defects in the substrate. Dephasing times T{sub 2}{sup *} differ markedly between materials and can be enhanced by increasing gate fields, choosing materials with weak spin-orbit, making dots narrower, or using accumulation dots.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗

Space Trajectory Error Analysis Program (STEAP) for halo orbit missions. Volume 1: Analytic and user's manual

Development, test, conversion, and documentation of computer software for the mission analysis of missions to halo orbits about libration points in the earth-sun system is reported. The software consisting of two programs called NOMNAL and ERRAN is part of the Space Trajectories Error Analysis Programs (STEAP). The program NOMNAL targets a transfer trajectory from Earth on a given launch date to a specified halo orbit on a required arrival date. Either impulsive or finite thrust insertion maneuvers into halo orbit are permitted by the program. The transfer trajectory is consistent with a realistic launch profile input by the user. The second program ERRAN conducts error analyses of the targeted transfer trajectory. Measurements including range, doppler, star-planet angles, and apparent planet diameter are processed in a Kalman-Schmidt filter to determine the trajectory knowledge uncertainty. Execution errors at injection, midcourse correction and orbit insertion maneuvers are analyzed along with the navigation uncertainty to determine trajectory control uncertainties and fuel-sizing requirements. The program is also capable of generalized covariance analyses.

Byrnes, D. V.↗