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Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 991 records · Page 55
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1982

Deep space communication - A one billion mile noisy channel

Deep space exploration is concerned with the study of natural phenomena in the solar system with the aid of measurements made at spacecraft on deep space missions. Deep space communication refers to communication between earth and spacecraft in deep space. The Deep Space Network is an earth-based facility employed for deep space communication. It includes a network of large tracking antennas located at various positions around the earth. The goals and achievements of deep space exploration over the past 20 years are discussed along with the broad functional requirements of deep space missions. Attention is given to the differences in space loss between communication satellites and deep space vehicles, effects of the long round-trip light time on spacecraft autonomy, requirements for the use of massive nuclear power plants on spacecraft at large distances from the sun, and the kinds of scientific return provided by a deep space mission. Problems concerning a deep space link of one billion miles are also explored.

Smith, J. G.↗
NASA NTRS1984

An operating system for future aerospace vehicle computer systems

The requirements for future aerospace vehicle computer operating systems are examined in this paper. The computer architecture is assumed to be distributed with a local area network connecting the nodes. Each node is assumed to provide a specific functionality. The network provides for communication so that the overall tasks of the vehicle are accomplished. The O/S structure is based upon the concept of objects. The mechanisms for integrating node unique objects with node common objects in order to implement both the autonomy and the cooperation between nodes is developed. The requirements for time critical performance and reliability and recovery are discussed. Time critical performance impacts all parts of the distributed operating system; e.g., its structure, the functional design of its objects, the language structure, etc. Throughout the paper the tradeoffs - concurrency, language structure, object recovery, binding, file structure, communication protocol, programmer freedom, etc. - are considered to arrive at a feasible, maximum performance design. Reliability of the network system is considered. A parallel multipath bus structure is proposed for the control of delivery time for time critical messages. The architecture also supports immediate recovery for the time critical message system after a communication failure.

Foudriat, E. C.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Space station needs, attributes and architectural options. Volume 4, task 2 and 3: Mission implementation and cost

An overview of the basic space station infrastructure is presented. A strong case is made for the evolution of the station using the basic Space Transportation System (STS) to achieve a smooth transition and cost effective implementation. The integrated logistics support (ILS) element of the overall station infrastructure is investigated. The need for an orbital transport system capability that is the key to servicing and spacecraft positioning scenarios and associated mission needs is examined. Communication is also an extremely important element and the basic issue of station autonomy versus ground support effects the system and subsystem architecture.

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NASA NTRS1983

Manned spaceflight activity planning with knowledge-based systems

An on-board expert system, capable of assisting with crew-activity planning and platform-status monitoring, could provide unprecedented autonomy to the crew of a permanently manned space station. To demonstrate this concept's feasibility, an existing knowledge-based system is adapted to support Space Shuttle crew-activity timeline planning. Proposed timeline changes are to be checked for compliance with crew capabilities and mission operating guidelines, so that a nonexpert can be guided through a successful plan modification. Early lessons that have been learned about the scope of the adaptation needed to achieve this objective are presented.

Mogilensky, J.↗
NASA NTRS1983

An end-to-end data system for the Gamma-Ray Observatory

A data system, which includes parts in the orbiting Gamma-Ray Observatory and in its associated ground system, has been designed to rapidly deliver autonomous, packeted data to the science users. Data autonomy means all of the data, including auxiliary data, necessary for processing is included in the data packet that leaves the spacecraft. The data packets leaving the spacecraft remain unopened until they reach the user. Handling the data on a packet rather than a byte level allows simpler and generic software. The data goes through the system more quickly. This in turn reduces cost.

Hrastar, J.↗
NASA NTRS1983

The space station - An overview of the design process

The design factors being considered in the NASA space-station development program are summarized. The currently envisioned mission requirements are listed, and the system architecture is defined as a core station, mission-dedicated elements, and supporting equipment such as an orbit maneuvering vehicle. System design factors discussed include orbit selection, contamination control, autonomy, system safety, technology implementation, long life, reliability and maintainability, and cost; subsystem design factors include structural considerations, electrical power, environmental control and life support, data management, communications and tracking, onboard propulsion, habitability, and crew support. Configurational design is seen as driven by a number of factors, primarily the need to fit all components into the Shuttle payload bay for assembly in LEO by the Shuttle crew.

Covington, C.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Space Systems Technology Conference, Costa Mesa, CA, June 5-7, 1984, Technical Papers

Space station technology is considered along with a shuttle tethered satellite system development program, the development of advanced orbital maintenance/servicing techniques for EVA applications, human systems interfaces for space stations, materials and structures for space applications, progress in space nuclear reactor power systems technology development with the aid of the SP-100 Program, and the design of reliable power systems for communications satellites. Attention is given to problems and concepts of space station guidance and control, spacecraft data management hardware state-of-the-art, progressive autonomy, and automation in teleoperation from a man-machine interface viewpoint. A space exploration outlook is provided, and the space power systems of the early 21st century are discussed.

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NASA NTRS1984

Electrical System Technology Working Group (WG) Report

The technology needs for space power systems (military, public, commercial) were assessed for the period 1995 to 2005 in the area of power management and distribution, components, circuits, subsystems, controls and autonomy, modeling and simulation. There was general agreement that the military requirements for pulse power would be the dominant factor in the growth of power systems. However, the growth of conventional power to the 100 to 250kw range would be in the public sector, with low Earth orbit needs being the driver toward large 100kw systems. An overall philosophy for large power system development is also described.

Silverman, S.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Psychological Issues in Online Adaptive Task Allocation

Adaptive aiding is an idea that offers potential for improvement over many current approaches to aiding in human-computer systems. The expected return of tailoring the system to fit the user could be in the form of improved system performance and/or increased user satisfaction. Issues such as the manner in which information is shared between human and computer, the appropriate division of labor between them, and the level of autonomy of the aid are explored. A simulated visual search task was developed. Subjects are required to identify targets in a moving display while performing a compensatory sub-critical tracking task. By manipulating characteristics of the situation such as imposed task-related workload and effort required to communicate with the computer, it is possible to create conditions in which interaction with the computer would be more or less desirable. The results of preliminary research using this experimental scenario are presented, and future directions for this research effort are discussed.

Morris, N. M.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Space station automation study. Volume 1: Executive summary. Autonomous systems and assembly

The space station automation study (SSAS) was to develop informed technical guidance for NASA personnel in the use of autonomy and autonomous systems to implement space station functions. The initial step taken by NASA in organizing the SSAS was to form and convene a panel of recognized expert technologists in automation, space sciences and aerospace engineering to produce a space station automation plan.

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NASA NTRS1985

NASA space station automation: AI-based technology review

Research and Development projects in automation for the Space Station are discussed. Artificial Intelligence (AI) based automation technologies are planned to enhance crew safety through reduced need for EVA, increase crew productivity through the reduction of routine operations, increase space station autonomy, and augment space station capability through the use of teleoperation and robotics. AI technology will also be developed for the servicing of satellites at the Space Station, system monitoring and diagnosis, space manufacturing, and the assembly of large space structures.

Firschein, O.↗
NASA NTRS1985

NASA space station automation: AI-based technology review. Executive summary

Research and Development projects in automation technology for the Space Station are described. Artificial Intelligence (AI) based technologies are planned to enhance crew safety through reduced need for EVA, increase crew productivity through the reduction of routine operations, increase space station autonomy, and augment space station capability through the use of teleoperation and robotics.

Firschein, O.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Space Station concept development group studies

The NASA study activities in preparation for a Space Station began in the early 1970's. The early studies included many in-house NASA and contracted studies. A group of representatives from all the NASA Centers, titled the Space Station Concept Development Group (CDG) was involved in the studies which led to the initiation of the Space Station Program. The CDG studies were performed over a period of approximately one year and consisted of four phases. The initial phase had the objective to determine the functions required of the station as opposed to a configuration. The activities of the second phase were primarily concerned with a sizing of the facilities required for payloads and the resources necessary to support these mission payloads. The third phase of studies was designed to develop a philosophical approach to a number of areas related to autonomy, maintainability, operations and logistics, and verification. The fourth phase of the study was to be concerned with configuration assessment activities.

Powell, L. E.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Cooperative control - The interface challenge for men and automated machines

The research issues associated with the increasing autonomy and independence of machines and their evolving relationships to human beings are explored. The research, conducted by Langley Research Center (LaRC), will produce a new social work order in which the complementary attributes of robots and human beings, which include robots' greater strength and precision and humans' greater physical and intellectual dexterity, are necessary for systems of cooperation. Attention is given to the tools for performing the research, including the Intelligent Systems Research Laboratory (ISRL) and industrial manipulators, as well as to the research approaches taken by the Automation Technology Branch (ATB) of LaRC to achieve high automation levels. The ATB is focusing on artificial intelligence research through DAISIE, a system which tends to organize its environment into hierarchical controller/planner abstractions.

Hankins, W. W., III↗
NASA NTRS1985

Space Station attitude control - An overview of requirements and solutions

Attitude control and various structural aspects of NASA's permanent manned Space Station are discussed in the framework of design flexibility, obsolescence as a deterent to a long operational life, modularity, and autonomy. Among the variable factors of specific importance, consideration is given to internal factors, such as inertial variations (up to 400 percent), center of mass movements (up to 28 m), and shifts in modal characteristics, as well as to external torque shifts associated with aerodynamic moments and gravity gradients. The compatibility among multiple-user requirements is also considered. As the Station is a low-orbit spacecraft, its attitude will be greatly affected by the inhomogeneity of the atmosphere, placing a priority on the attitude control techniques. A combination of passive (spring-mass-damper suspension systems) and active (sensor/disturbance-canceling device) systems are expected to be used.

Buchanan, H. J.↗
NASA NTRS1984

NASA's plans for life sciences research facilities on a Space Station

A Life Sciences Research Facility on a Space Station will contribute to the health and well-being of humans in space, as well as address many fundamental questions in gravitational and developmental biology. Scientific interests include bone and muscle attrition, fluid and electrolyte shifts, cardiovascular deconditioning, metabolism, neurophysiology, reproduction, behavior, drugs and immunology, radiation biology, and closed life-support system development. The life sciences module will include a laboratory and a vivarium. Trade-offs currently being evaluated include (1) the need for and size of a 1-g control centrifuge; (2) specimen quantities and species for research; (3) degree of on-board analysis versus sample return and ground analysis; (4) type and extent of equipment automation; (5) facility return versus on-orbit refurbishment; (6) facility modularity, isolation, and system independence; and (7) selection of experiments, design, autonomy, sharing, compatibility, and integration.

Arno, R.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Human factors in space station architecture 1: Space station program implications for human factors research

The space station program is based on a set of premises on mission requirements and the operational capabilities of the space shuttle. These premises will influence the human behavioral factors and conditions on board the space station. These include: launch in the STS Orbiter payload bay, orbital characteristics, power supply, microgravity environment, autonomy from the ground, crew make-up and organization, distributed command control, safety, and logistics resupply. The most immediate design impacts of these premises will be upon the architectural organization and internal environment of the space station.

Cohen, M. M.↗