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At least 1,153 records · Page 64

A prioritized set of physiological measurements for future spaceflight experiments

A set of desired experimental measurements to be obtained in future spaceflights in four areas of physiological investigation are identified. The basis for identifying the measurements was the physiological systems analysis performed on Skylab data and related ground-based studies. An approach for prioritizing the measurement list is identified and discussed with the use of examples. A prioritized measurement list is presented for each of the following areas; cardiopulmonary, fluid-renal and electrolyte, hematology and immunology, and musculoskeletal. Also included is a list of interacting stresses and other factors present in spaceflight experiments whose effects may need to be quantified.

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Research needs in aerospace structural dynamics

The perspective of a NASA Ad Hoc Study Committee on future research needs in structural dynamics within the aerospace industry is presented. It identifies the common aspects of the design process across the industry and establishes the role of structural dynamics in it through a discussion of various design considerations having their basis in structural dynamics. The specific structural dynamics issues involved in these considerations are identified and assessed as to their current technological status and trends. Projections of future requirements based on this assessment are made and areas of research to meet them are identified.

Amos, A. K.↗

Residential photovoltaic module and array requirements study

Design requirements for photovoltaic modules and arrays used in residential applications were identified. Building codes and referenced standards were reviewed for their applicability to residential photovoltaic array installations. Four installation types were identified - integral (replaces roofing), direct (mounted on top of roofing), stand-off (mounted away from roofing), and rack (for flat or low slope roofs, or ground mounted). Installation costs were developed for these mounting types as a function of panel/module size. Studies were performed to identify optimum module shapes and sizes and operating voltage cost drivers. It is concluded that there are no perceived major obstacles to the use of photovoltaic modules in residential arrays. However, there is no applicable building code category for residential photovoltaic modules and arrays and additional work with standards writing organizations is needed to develop residential module and array requirements.

Nearhoof, S. L.↗

An assessment of the readiness of ablative materials for preflight application to the shuttle orbiter

The shuttle orbiter relies primarily on a reusable surface insulation (RSI) thermal protection system (TPS). The RSI is very efficient in its thermal performance; however, the RSI tile system has shown poor mechanical integrity. The state-of-the-art of the ablative TPS is reviewed, and an assessment made of the ablator's readiness for use on the shuttle orbiter. Unresolved technical issues with regard to the ablative TPS are identified. Short time, highly focused analytical and experimental programs were initiated to: (1) identify candidate ablation materials; (2) assess the data base for these materials; (3) evaluate the need and kind of waterproof coating; (4) calculate thermal and other stresses in an ablator tile; (5) identify an acceptable ablator/RSI tile joint filler; and (6) assess the sensitivity of the ablator to sequential heat pulses. Results from some of these programs are discussed.

Tompkins, S. S.↗

Application Explorer Mission-A heat capacity mapping mission

The author has identified the following significant results. Fine orogenic sediments, not detectable on the images recorded within the visible wavelength region, can be clearly recognized on all night IR-images. The area of glaciation in the northern foreland of the Alps can be partially identified on the basis of night-IR data. The terminal moraine of various glacierization phases can be mapped and the relative dry and unsorted moraine material consisting of crystalline components can be located through the vegetation cover. The eastern part of the glaciation area can be traced because of reverse temperature effect. In addition to the upper Bavarian lakes, the night-IR images clearly indicate the distribution of high soil moisture areas such as swamps and bogs. The geological border of the upper fresh water molasse in the northern part of the basin north of Munich is identifiable on night IR-imagery. Drift peat areas can be located on day-IR images of the dry season of the year.

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Radar imaging of volcanic fields and sand dune fields: Implications for VOIR

A number of volcanic fields and sand dune fields in the western part of North America were studied using aircraft and Seasat synthetic aperture radar images and LANDSAT images. The capability of radars with different characteristics (i.e., frequency, polarization and look angles was assessed to identify and map different volcanic features, lava flows and sand dune types. It was concluded that: (1) volcanic features which have a relatively large topographic expression (i.e., cinder cones, collapse craters, calderas, etc.) are easily identified; (2) lava flows of different ages can be identified, particularly on the L-band images; and (3) sand dunes are clearly observed and their extent and large scale geometric characteristics determined, provided the proper imaging geometry exists.

Elachi, C.↗

Geostationary platform systems concepts definition study. Volume 2: Technical, book 1

The initial selection and definition of operational geostationary platform concepts is discussed. Candidate geostationary platform missions and payloads were identified from COMSAT, Aerospace, and NASA studies. These missions and payloads were cataloged; classified with to communications, military, or scientific uses; screened for application and compatibility with geostationary platforms; and analyzed to identify platform requirements. Two platform locations were then selected (Western Hemisphere - 110 deg W, and Atlantic - 15 deg W), and payloads allocated based on nominal and high traffic models. Trade studies were performed leading to recommendation of selected concepts. Of 30 Orbit Transfer Vehicle (0TV) configuration and operating mode options identified, 18 viable candidates compatible with the operational geostationary platform missions were selected for analysis. Each was considered using four platform operational modes - 8 or 16 year life, and serviced or nonserviced, providing a total of 72 OTV/platform-mode options. For final trade study concept selection, a cost program was developed considering payload and platform costs and weight; transportation unit and total costs for the shuttle and OTV; and operational costs such as assembly or construction time, mating time, and loiter time. Servicing costs were added for final analysis and recommended selection.

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Structures, performance, benefit, cost study

Aircraft engine structures were studied to identify the advanced structural technologies that would provide the most benefits to future aircraft operations. A series of studies identified engine systems with the greatest potential for improvements. Based on these studies, six advanced generic structural concepts were selected and conceptually designed. The benefits of each concept were quantitatively assessed in terms of thrust specific fuel consumption, weight, cost, maintenance cost, fuel burned and direct operating cost plus interest. The probability of success of each concept was also determined. The concepts were ranked and the three most promising were selected for further study which consisted of identifying and comprehensively outlining the advanced technologies required to develop these concepts for aircraft engine application. Analytic, fabrication, and test technology developments are required. The technology programs outlined emphasize the need to provide basic, fundamental understanding of technology to obtain the benefit goals.

Feder, E.↗

A survey of He-3 enriched events between 1974 and 1978

In five years of observations between 1974 and 1978, at least 17 He-3 enriched events have been identified in the energy range 2 to 13 MeV/nucleon, with He-3/He-4 ratios ranging from less than 0.1 to greater than 4. The scarcity of H-2 in He-3 events found by other workers is confirmed in this data. Flattening of He-3 spectra relative to He-4 is identified in several of the events. Many but not all of the sampled events are found to have small H-1/He-4 ratios. A sum of the sampled events shows not only Fe enrichments but abundances enhanced relative to oxygen of all heavier elements. No substantial depletion of carbon is identified. A dependence of the enhancements in He-3 events on atomic number like that found in other Fe-enriched solar cosmic ray events suggests a common mechanism producing the enhancements.

Mcguire, R. E.↗

Crop identification studies using Landsat data Separation of barley from other spring small grains and corn and soybean decision logic

Two labeling procedures were developed which identify various agricultural crops through the use of Landsat data. One procedure separates barley from other spring small grains, and the other identifies corn and soybeans. For both procedures, a minimum data set (critical acquisition time) has been designated. Landsat data in both image format and various graphic displays were used along with ancillary data to obtain information which aided in labeling the spectral signatures. The corn and soybean procedure also employed a structured decision logic. Test results for the barley separation procedure emphasized the importance of obtaining a critical acquisition and showed some success especially in areas where spring crops followed the expected growth patterns. Two tests of the corn and soybean procedure produced good labeling accuracies. Problems with the procedure were easy to identify, and some solutions were implemented for the second test. Automation of various parts of the procedure and extension to other crops and regions were recommended.

Dailey, C. L.↗

Analysis of aromatic polyamine mixtures for formulation of LARC-160 resin

An investigation was conducted to identify a potential substitute for the aromatic polyamine mixture, Jeffamine AP-22, currently used to formulate LARC-160 polyimide precursor resin. Jeffamine AP-22 was characterized by high pressure liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Eleven different aromatic amines in the mixture were isolated and identified. Subsequent liquid chromatographic analysis of nine additional commercially available aromatic polyamine mixtures identified three candidates that are similar in composition to AP-22.

Young, P. R.↗

A complete X-ray sample of the high latitude sky from HEAO-1 A-2: log N lo S and luminosity functions

An experiment was performed in which a complete X-ray survey of the 8.2 steradians of the sky at galactic latitudes where the absolute value of b is 20 deg down to a limiting sensitivity of 3.1 x ten to the minus 11th power ergs/sq cm sec in the 2-10 keV band. Of the 85 detected sources 17 were identified with galactic objects, 61 were identified with extragalactic objects, and 7 remain unidentified. The log N - log S relation for the non-galactic objects is well fit by the Euclidean relationship. The X-ray spectra of these objects were used to construct log N - log S in physical units. The complete sample of identified sources was used to construct X-ray luminosity functions, using the absolute maximum likelihood method, for clusters galaxies and active galactic nuclei.

Piccinotti, G.↗

The EMC of satellite power systems and DoD C-E systems

The solar power satellite (SPS) technical parameters that are needed to accurately assess the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) between SPS systems and DoD communications-electronics (C-E) systems are identified and assessed. The type of electromagnetic interactions that could degrade the performance of C-E systems are described and the major military installations in the southwestern portions of CONUS where specially sensitive C-E systems are being used for combat training and evaluation are identified. Classes of C-E systems that are generally in the vicinity of these military installations are considered. The Technical parameters that govern the degree of compatibility of the SPS with these C-E systems, and some technical requirements that are necessary to ensure short-term and long-term EMC are identified.

Atkinson, J. H.↗

Computer Science Research at Langley

A workshop was held at Langley Research Center, November 2-5, 1981, to highlight ongoing computer science research at Langley and to identify additional areas of research based upon the computer user requirements. A panel discussion was held in each of nine application areas, and these are summarized in the proceedings. Slides presented by the invited speakers are also included. A survey of scientific, business, data reduction, and microprocessor computer users helped identify areas of focus for the workshop. Several areas of computer science which are of most concern to the Langley computer users were identified during the workshop discussions. These include graphics, distributed processing, programmer support systems and tools, database management, and numerical methods.

Voigt, S. J.↗

Experience and assessment of the DOE-NASA Mod-1 2000-Kilowatt wind turbine generator at Boone, North Carolina

The Mod 1 program objectives are defined. The Mod 1 wind turbine is described. In addition to the steel blade operated on the wind turbine, a composite blade was designed and manufactured. During the early phase of the manufacturing cycle of Mod 1A configuration was designed that identified concepts such as partial span control, a soft tower, and upwind teetered rotors that were incorporated in second and third generation industry designs. The Mod 1 electrical system performed as designed, with voltage flicker characteristics within acceptable utility limits. Power output versus wind speed equaled or exceeded design predictions. The wind turbine control system was operated successfully at the site and remotely from the utility dispatcher's office. During wind turbine operations, television interference was experienced by the local residents. As a consequence, operations were restricted. Although not implemented, two potential solutions were identified. In addition to television interference, a few local residents complained bout objectionable sound, particularly the 'thump' as the blade passed behind the tower. To eliminate objections, the sound generation level was reduced by 10 dB by reducing the rotor speed from 35 rpm to 23 rpm. Bolts in the drive train fractured. A solution was identified but not implemented. The public reaction toward the Mod 1 wind turbine program was overwhelmingly favorable.

Collins, J. L.↗

Landsat in the search for Appalachian hydrocarbons

A study has been conducted to determine the applicability of enhanced Landsat imagery for oil and gas exploration in Appalachia. Attention was given to the feasibility to employ lineaments identified on Landsat imagery as a tool in petroleum exploration. Lineaments, as defined in this connection, are linear or sublinear traces seen on Landsat imagery. They frequently reflect subsurface geological structures. The investigation was conducted in two stages. The first was designed to identify the specific Landsat imagery enhancement best suited for displaying lineaments. The second stage consisted of plotting lineaments and conducting an analysis of the lineament trends with regard to both local geological structure and regional tectonics. A close relationship was observed between lineaments identified on Landsat imagery and known oil and gas reservoirs. This result suggests that lineaments can be related to the structural control of oil and gas reservoirs throughout Appalachia.

Blodget, H. W.↗

Radar imagery for forest cover mapping

Dual-polarized, X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) imagery was obtained from an altitude of 60,000 feet over a test area near Camden, SC on June 30, 1980. The objective of this study was to determine, qualitatively, the value of the SAR imagery for identifying various forest cover types. In analyzing the HH and HV polarization images, particular attention was given to the tonal and textural characteristics of the cover types involved. The analysis of the dual-polarized SAR imagery has shown that certain forest cover features are more easily identified in one polarization than the other, while some features look very similar in both polarizations. In general, the results for this data set have shown that the overall tonal contrast between features was greater on the HH image. Neither polarization was consistently better for identifying the various forest cover types examined. These results suggest the usefulness of a dual-polarized SAR system for mapping forest cover.

Knowlton, D. J.↗

Assessing the representativeness of wind data for wind turbine site evaluation

Once potential wind turbine sites (either for single installations or clusters) are identified through siting procedures, actual evaluation of the sites must commence. This evaluation is needed to obtain estimates of wind turbine performance and to identify hazards to the machine from the turbulence component of the atmosphere. These estimates allow for more detailed project planning and for preliminary financing arrangements to be secured. The site evaluation process can occur in two stages: (1) utilizing existing nearby data, and (2) establishing and monitoring an onsite measurement program. Since step (2) requires a period of at least 1 yr or more from the time a potential site has been identified, step (1) is often an essential stage in the preliminary evaluation process. Both the methods that have been developed and the unknowns that still exist in assessing the representativeness of available data to a nearby wind turbine site are discussed. How the assessment of the representativeness of available data can be used to develop a more effective onsite meteorological measurement program is also discussed.

Renne, D. S.↗