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At least 991 records · Page 55

Development of a global model for atmospheric backscatter at CO2 wavelengths

The effect of gravitational sedimentation on the atmospheric aerosol size distribution has been simulated using a one layer numerical model. A nonlinear curve fitting program is being developed to study aerosol size parameters. The Sage/Sam 2 data establishing the geographical and temporal variations of aerosol concentration in the troposphere are being studied. The basic version of the Sam 2 program and the alternative version of the Sage 2 program are operational. Above 6 km, latitudinal differences are more important in determining aerosol concentration than surface conditions.

Source record↗

Surface deformation, gravity and the geoid from a three-dimensional convection model at low Rayleigh numbers

The two-dimensional surface deformation, gravity field, and geoid are calculated from the temperature fields of a number of numerical models of constant-viscosity three-dimensional convective flows, heated from within and from below. The surface deformation and the geoid are insensitive to the short-wavelength features of the temperature variation; the gravity field is less smooth, although it still does not clearly indicate the narrowness of the upwelling and downwelling regions at large Rayleigh numbers. The results indicate that the convective upwelling beneath regions showing positive geoid and residual depth anomalies is more localized than the horizontal extent of these features would suggest. The results are relevant to attempts to understand the behavior of the earth mantle.

Craig, Claire Harvey↗

Global weather research

Modeling, prediction, and analysis of global meteorological phenomena influencing the large scale behavior of the atmosphere are summarized. Prediction of global weather phenomena based on satellite data is discussed and models of global phenomena developed. The atmospheric general circulation model (AGCE) is reviewed, axisymmetric flow calculated, and axisymmetric states in cylindrical, spherical, three dimensional, and spin up numerical models for AGCE described. The role of latent heat release in baroclinic waves, latent heat and cyclonic systems, and a theoretical study of baroclinic flow related to the AGCE and the flow regime were studied with a simplified general circulation model. AGCE and the geophysical fluid flow cell (GFFC) instrumentation are discussed. Investigation of solar and planetary convection for GFFC is described. The utilization of satellite cloud observations to diagnose the energy state and transformations in extratropical cyclones is reviewed.

Source record↗

Extensions and applications of a second-order landsurface parameterization

Extensions and applications of a second order land surface parameterization, proposed by Andreou and Eagleson are developed. Procedures for evaluating the near surface storage depth used in one cell land surface parameterizations are suggested and tested by using the model. Sensitivity analysis to the key soil parameters is performed. A case study involving comparison with an "exact" numerical model and another simplified parameterization, under very dry climatic conditions and for two different soil types, is also incorporated.

Andreou, S. A.↗

Oxygen species

The spatial distribution of ozone, as predicted by numerical models, is compared with observations. A set of reference ozone profiles was developed against which to compare current numerical calculations. Most of the analyses will focus on ozone between 30 and 70 km altitude.

Brasseur, G.↗

Time-dependent Computational Studies of Premixed Flames in Microgravity

This report describes the research performed at the Center for Reactive Flow and Dynamical Systems in the Laboratory for Computational Physics and Fluid Dynamics, at the Naval Research Laboratory, in support of NASA Microgravity Science and Applications Program. The primary focus of this research is on investigating fundamental questions concerning the propagation and extinction of premixed flames in earth gravity and in microgravity environments. Our approach is to use detailed time-dependent, multispecies, numerical models as tools to simulate flames in different gravity environments. The models include a detailed chemical kinetics mechanism consisting of elementary reactions among the eight reactive species involved in hydrogen combustion, coupled to algorithms for convection, thermal conduction, viscosity, molecular and thermal diffusion, and external forces. The external force, gravity, can be put in any direction relative to flame propagation and can have a range of values. Recently more advanced wall boundary conditions such as isothermal and no-slip have been added to the model. This enables the simulation of flames propagating in more practical systems than before. We have used the numerical simulations to investigate the effects of heat losses and buoyancy forces on the structure and stability of flames, to help resolve fundamental questions on the existence of flammability limits when there are no external losses or buoyancy forces in the system, to understand the interaction between the various processes leading to flame instabilities and extinguishment, and to study the dynamics of cell formation and splitting. Our studies have been able to bring out the differences between upward- and downward-propagating flames and predict the zero-gravity behavior of these flames. The simulations have also highlighted the dominant role of wall heat losses in the case of downward-propagating flames. The simulations have been able to qualitatively predict the formation of multiple cells and the cessation of cell-splitting. Our studies have also shown that some flames in a microgravity environment can be extinguished due to a chemical instability and without any external losses. However, further simulations are needed to more completely understand upward-propagating and zero-gravity flames as well as to understand the potential effect of radiative heat losses.

Kailasanath, K.↗

Structure and dynamics of premixed flames in microgravity

In this report we describe the research performed at the Naval Research Laboratory in support of the NASA Microgravity Science and Applications Program over the past three years with emphasis on the work performed since February 1992, the beginning of the current project. The focus of our research has been on investigating fundamental combustion questions concerning the propagation and extinction of gas-phase flames in microgravity and earth-gravity environments. Our approach to resolving these fundamental questions has been to use detailed time-dependent, multidimensional numerical models to perform carefully designed computational experiments. The basic questions we have addressed, a general description of the numerical approach, and a summary of the results are described in this report. More detailed discussions are available in the papers published which are referenced herein.

Kailasanath, K.↗

Numerical Study of Interaction of a Vortical Density Inhomogeneity with Shock and Expansion Waves

We studied the interaction of a vortical density inhomogeneity (VDI) with shock and expansion waves. We call the VDI the region of concentrated vorticity (vortex) with a density different from that of ambiance. Non-parallel directions of the density gradient normal to the VDI surface and the pressure gradient across a shock wave results in an additional vorticity. The roll-up of the initial round VDI towards a non-symmetrical shape is studied numerically. Numerical modeling of this interaction is performed by a 2-D Euler code. The use of an adaptive unstructured numerical grid makes it possible to obtain high accuracy and capture regions of induced vorticity with a moderate overall number of mesh points. For the validation of the code, the computational results are compared with available experimental results and good agreement is obtained. The interaction of the VDI with a propagating shock wave is studied for a range of initial and induced circulations and obtained flow patterns are presented. The splitting of the VDI develops into the formation of a non-symmetrical vortex pair and not in a set of vortices. A method for the analytical computation of an overall induced circulation Gamma(sub 1) as a result of the interaction of a moving VDI with a number of waves is proposed. Simplified, approximated, expressions for Gamma(sub 1) are derived and their accuracy is discussed. The splitting of the VDI passing through the Prandtl-Meyer expansion wave is studied numerically. The obtained VDI patterns are compared to those for the interaction of the VDI with a propagating shock wave for the same values of initial and induced circulations. These patterns have similar shapes for corresponding time moments.

Povitsky, A.↗

The LaRC Wake Vortex Modelling Effort

The purpose of the modelling effort at NASA Langley, including goals, is outlined in this presentation. Included, is a description of the numerical model that is used for the NASA wake vortex modeling effort and the approach that is taken in order to achieve the stated goals. Also shown are: 1) a demonstration of using the model in a fog environment; 2) preliminary results from a 3-D simulation in a nonturbulent and thermally-stable environment with comparison to a comparable 2-D simulation of the same event; and 3) several validation cases from the Idaho-Falls and Memphis field studies where results from the 2-D version of the model are compared with Lidar and tower data.

Proctor, Fred↗

Finite Elements Analysis of a Composite Semi-Span Test Article With and Without Discrete Damage

AS&M Inc. performed finite element analysis, with and without discrete damage, of a composite semi-span test article that represents the Boeing 220-passenger transport aircraft composite semi-span test article. A NASTRAN bulk data file and drawings of the test mount fixtures and semi-span components were utilized to generate the baseline finite element model. In this model, the stringer blades are represented by shell elements, and the stringer flanges are combined with the skin. Numerous modeling modifications and discrete source damage scenarios were applied to the test article model throughout the course of the study. This report details the analysis method and results obtained from the composite semi-span study. Analyses were carried out for three load cases: Braked Roll, LOG Down-Bending and 2.5G Up-Bending. These analyses included linear and nonlinear static response, as well as linear and nonlinear buckling response. Results are presented in the form of stress and strain plots. factors of safety for failed elements, buckling loads and modes, deflection prediction tables and plots, and strainage prediction tables and plots. The collected results are presented within this report for comparison to test results.

Lovejoy, Andrew E.↗

ISS Destiny Laboratory Smoke Detection Model

Smoke transport and detection were modeled numerically in the ISS Destiny module using the NIST, Fire Dynamics Simulator code. The airflows in Destiny were modeled using the existing flow conditions and the module geometry included obstructions that simulate the currently installed hardware on orbit. The smoke source was modeled as a 0.152 by 0.152 m region that emitted smoke particulate ranging from 1.46 to 8.47 mg/s. In the module domain, the smoke source was placed in the center of each Destiny rack location and the model was run to determine the time required for the two smoke detectors to alarm. Overall the detection times were dominated by the circumferential flow, the axial flow from the intermodule ventilation and the smoke source strength.

Brooker, John E.↗

Open-Source Data Engineering at NASA: CCMC's Approach to Managing Petabyte-Scale Heliophysics Data

The Community Coordinated Modeling Center (CCMC) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) leads heliophysics research by providing open access to numerous models and their outputs. Our resources are available on-demand and continuously updated with real-time data, covering sun-earth interactions across multiple domains. These domains include coronal, heliosphere, inner and global magnetosphere, ionosphere, thermosphere, and lower atmosphere interactions. Operating in a hybrid environment, CCMC utilizes both self-owned hardware and Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud infrastructure. Managing petabytes of data across multiple locations necessitates robust data engineering solutions. To address this challenge, CCMC has adopted industry-standard and open-source tools. We use Apache Airflow as our primary data engineering platform, Python for scripting and data processing, and GitLab for version control and CI/CD. Additionally, we employ Kubernetes for containerized services, Grafana and Prometheus for metrics and monitoring, and Terraform and Puppet for reproducible infrastructure as code. This presentation will discuss lessons learned from our data engineering experiences, platforms evaluated but found unsuitable for our scientific data requirements, and specific techniques developed to enhance data transfer speed and reliability. By using these technologies effectively, CCMC continues to advance heliophysics research through efficient data management and open-access modeling.

space weather↗

The effects of detailed chemistry and transport on microgravity droplet combustion

A brief overview of recent advances in the theoretical study of microgravity droplet combustion is presented. Much of this work has centered on the development and utilization of sphero-symmetric transient numerical models which consider detailed gas phase chemistry and transport as well as energy and/or species transport within a regressing condensed phase. Numerical results for microgravity combustion and vaporization of methanol, methanol/water, heptane, and heptane/hexadecane droplets are summarized along with refinements in chemical kinetics and the development of a new two-dimensional axi-symmetric model.

Marchese, A. J.↗

Rotating-fluid experiments with an atmospheric general circulation model

In order to determine features of rotating fluid flow that are dependent on the geometry, rotating annulus-type experiments are carried out with a numerical model in spherical coordinates. Rather than constructing and testing a model expressly for this purpose, it is found expedient to modify an existing general circulation model of the atmosphere by removing the model physics and replacing the lower boundary with a uniform surface. A regime diagram derived from these model experiments is presented; its major features are interpreted and contrasted with the major features of rotating annulus regime diagrams. Within the wave regime, a narrow region is found where one or two zonal wave numbers are dominant. The results reveal no upper symmetric regime; wave activity at low rotation rates is thought to be maintained by barotropic rather than baroclinic processes.

Geisler, J. E.↗

Computing Needs for Astrobiology: Models of Planetary Formation

Theories of planet formation indicate that a diverse range of physical and chemical processes determine the characteristics of a planetary system. Extensive numerical modeling is required to understand how planetary systems form, and to make quantitative assessments of the factors which determine the masses, spacings and volatile compound inventories of planets and small bodies within a planetary system. Fluid flow problems associated with the formation and evolution of protoplanetary disks include specific local calculations to provide physical insight, which are best performed on workstations, and large multifaceted simulations which require supercomputers with large memories. Formation and early growth of planetesimals display a similar range of computational requirements. Modeling the late stages of planetary accumulation is very CPU intensive, as it requires following a simple system of approx. hundreds of bodies for millions of dynamical (orbital) times. These varied computational needs could be met in the most cost-effective manner by a diverse set of computers, including workstations for individual PI's and dedicated time on various types of supercomputers which are specialized for differing tasks.

Lissauer, Jack J.↗

Advanced in turbulence physics and modeling by direct numerical simulations

The advent of direct numerical simulations of turbulence has opened avenues for research on turbulence physics and turbulence modeling. Direct numerical simulation provides values for anything that the scientist or modeler would like to know about the flow. An overview of some recent advances in the physical understanding of turbulence and in turbulence modeling obtained through such simulations is presented.

Reynolds, W. C.↗

Evidence for eddy formation in the eastern Arabian Sea during the northeast monsoon

The seasonal formation of a large (500-800 km diameter) anticyclonic eddy in the upper 300-400 m of the eastern Arabian Sea during the northest monsoon period (December-April) is indicated fom hydrographic and satellite altimetry sea level observations, as well as from numerical model experiments. The center of the eddy circulation is approximately 10 deg N, 70 deg E, just to the west of the north-south Laccadive Island chain. In this paper the eddy is called the Laccadive High (LH). In some ways it is like a mirrorlike counterpart to the Great Whirl that develops during the southwest monsoon of the Somali coast (western Arabian Sea). The LH occurs at the same latitude but on the opposite side of the basin during the reversed monsoon. It is different from the Great Whirl, however, in its formation process, its intensity, and its decay. The hydrographic data obtained from surveys all during a single season give sufficiently close station spacing to allow reasonable contouring of the geopotential surfaces and of the properties within and around the LH region with minimum time aliasing. The Geostat altimeter record extends over 4 years, during which the seasonal variability of the LH indicates a dynamic relief of approximately 15-20 cm, which is in good agreement with the hydrographics observations. The altimetry time series also suggests a westward translation of the LH by January with a subsequent dissipation in midbasin. The model used is a wind-forced three-layer primitive equation model which depicts a LH agreement with the timing, position, and amplitude of both the hydrographic and altimetric measurements. The numerical simulation includes a passive tracer located in the Western Bay of Bengal; the western advection of the tracer around the south coasts of Sri Lanka and India in December and January is consistent with the appearance of low-salinity water observed to extend into the Arabian Sea during this period. The modeling studies suggest that both local and remote forcing are important in formation of the LH.

Bruce, John G.↗

Numerical Study of Buoyancy and Differential Diffusion Effects on the Structure and Dynamics of Triple Flames

Triple flames arise in a number of practical configurations where fuel and oxidizer are partially premixed, such as in the base of a lifted jet flame. Past experimental studies, theoretical analyses, and numerical modeling of triple flames suggested the potential role of triple flames in stabilizing turbulent flames and in promoting flame propagation. From recent numerical simulations of laminar triple flames, a strong influence of differential diffusion among species and heat on the triple flame structure has been gradually appreciated. This paper reports preliminary numerical results on the influence of gravity and differential diffusion effects on the structure and dynamics of triple flames with a one-step global irreversible chemistry model.

Chen, J. -Y.↗