Profiles of excellence
Contributions by minorities to the NASA programs are highlighted by profiles of 80 personnel. Educational and professional histories are summarized.
Source record↗
SEARCH · Engineering Papers
Results for “NASA PROGRAM”
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.
Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.
Shuttle Tethered Aerothermodynamics Research Facility (STARFAC)
The Earth's atmosphere from 90 km to 200 km provides the last aerothermodynamics frontier. Present NASA programs which require but also can provide an understanding of the aerodynamics and aerothermodynamics of the free molecule and transition flows that exist at these altitudes are the Aeroassisted OTV, Entry Research Vehicle and the Tethered Satellite. Each of these programs provides a unique opportunity to do flight research in the rarefied upper atmosphere. However, the Tethered Satellite Program provides, because of its capability to obtain global, in-situ, steady state data, the greatest potential to: (1)define the performance of aerodynamic shapes as a function of environmental characteristics (free molecule, transition, slip flow regimes); (2)define the characteristics of the upper atmosphere and the global variability of properties such as composition temperature, pressure and density. Such data are required to accomplish the systematic development and verification of analytical prediction techniques required to support advance configuration designs.
Siemers, P. M.↗
NASA electric propulsion technology
It is pointed out that the requirements for future electric propulsion cover an extremely large range of technical and programmatic characteristics. A NASA program is to provide options for the many potential mission applications, taking into account work on electrostatic, electromagnetic, and electrothermal propulsion systems. The present paper is concerned with developments regarding the three classes of electric propulsion. Studies concerning electrostatic propulsion are concerned with ion propulsion for primary propulsion for planetary and earth-orbit transfer vehicles, stationkeeping for geosynchronous spacecraft, and ion thruster systems. In connection with investigations related to electromagnetic propulsion, attention is given to electromagnetic launchers, the Hall current thruster, and magnetoplasmadynamic thrusters. In a discussion of electrothermal developments, space station resistojets are considered along with high performance resistojets, arcjets, and a laser thruster.
Berkopec, F. D.↗
Signal processing in SETI
It is believed that the Galaxy might contain ten billion potential life sites. In view of the physical inaccessibility of extraterrestrial life on account of the vast distances involved, a logical first step in a search for extraterrestrial intelligence (SETI) appears to be an attempt to detect signals already being radiated. The characteristics of the signals to be expected are discussed together with the search strategy of a NASA program. It is pointed out that all presently planned searches will use existing radio-astronomy antennas. If no extraterrestrial intelligence signals are discovered, society will have to decide whether SETI justifies a dedicated facility of much greater collecting area. Attention is given to a multichannel spectrum analyzer, CW signal detection, pulse detection, the pattern detector, and details of SETI system operation.
Cullers, D. K.↗
Spatial information technologies for remote sensing today and tomorrow; Proceedings of the Ninth Pecora Symposium, Sioux Falls, SD, October 2-4, 1984
Topics discussed at the symposium include hardware, geographic information system (GIS) implementation, processing remotely sensed data, spatial data structures, and NASA programs in remote sensing information systems. Attention is also given GIS applications, advanced techniques, artificial intelligence, graphics, spatial navigation, and classification. Papers are included on the design of computer software for geographic image processing, concepts for a global resource information system, algorithm development for spatial operators, and an application of expert systems technology to remotely sensed image analysis.
Source record↗
Using the ET for gamma-ray astronomy
A gamma-ray-telescope design is presented which makes use of the normally spent external tank (ET) of the Space Shuttle as the spacecraft and Cerenkov pressure vessel. The ET would be configured into the telescope once onorbit, using the Space Station as the base of operations for carrying out the assembly activities. The telescope provides a continuation to the NASA program in high-energy astrophysics, providing for follow-on observations to the survey work of the EGRET instrument on GRO. The most important features of the gamma-ray imaging telescope system are its collecting area of 250,000 sq cm per ET (40 times that of the EGRET instrument) and its ability to locate point sources to within several arc minutes.
Koch, D.↗
Space technology today
The current status of major NASA programs and planning efforts is surveyed. Consideration is given to space-sciences programs (IRAS, SIRTF, Space Telescope, and planetary probes), applications programs (terrestrial remote sensing, communication, and meteorology), manned spacecraft, the STS, the Space Station, space commercialization efforts (materials processing and bioprocessing), and the feasibility of permanent lunar bases and manned Mars expeditions. Photographs and drawings are included.
Cohen, A.↗
The SCOLE design challenge
An NASA program is discussed which was initiated to make direct comparisons of control laws for, first, a mathematical problem, than an experimental test article is being assembled under the cognizance of the Spacecraft Control Branch. The physical apparatus will consist of a softly supported dynamic model of an antenna attached to the Shuttle by a flexible beam. The control objective will include the task of directing the line of sight of the Shuttle/antenna configuration toward a fixed target, under conditions of noisy data, limited control authority and random disturbances. A workshop will be planned to discuss and compare results of the design challange.
Taylor, Larry↗
Development of powder metallurgy 2XXX series Al alloy plate and sheet materials for high temperature aircraft structural applications, FY 1983/1984
The objective of this investigation is to fabricate and evaluate PM 2124 Al alloy plate and sheet materials according to NASA program goals for damage tolerance and fatigue resistance. Previous research has indicated the outstanding strength-toughness relationship available with PM 2124 Al-Zr modified alloy compositions in extruded product forms. The range of processing conditions was explored in the fabrication of plate and sheet gage materials, as well as the resultant mechanical and metallurgical properties. The PM composition based on Al-3.70 Cu-1.85 Mg-0.20 Mn with 0.60 wt. pct. Zr was selected. Flat rolled material consisting of 0.250 in. thick plate was fabricated using selected thermal mechanical treatments (TMT). The schedule of TMT operations was designed to yield the extreme conditions of grain structure normally encountered in the fabrication of flat rolled products, specifically recrystallized and unrecrystallized. The PM Al alloy plate and sheet materials exhibited improved strength properties at thin gages compared to IM Al alloys, as a consequence of their enhanced ability to inhibit recrystallization and grain growth. In addition, the PM 2124 Al alloys offer much better combinations of strength and toughnessover equivalent IM Al. The alloy microstructures were examined by optical metallographic texture techniques in order to establish the metallurgical basis for these significant property improvements.
Chellman, D. J.↗
Space station power system
The major requirements and guidelines that affect the space station configuration and power system are explained. The evolution of the space station power system from the NASA program development-feasibility phase through the current preliminary design phase is described. Several early station concepts are described and linked to the present concept. Trade study selections of photovoltaic system technologies are described in detail. A summary of present solar dynamic and power management and distribution systems is also given.
Baraona, Cosmo R.↗
The space station power system
The major requirements and guidelines that affect the NASA Space Station configuration and the power system are explained. The evolution of the Space Station power system from the NASA program development-feasibility phase through the preliminary design phase is described. Early station concepts, both fanciful and feasible, are described and linked to the present concept. The Phase B trade study selections of photovoltaic system technologies are detailed. Solar dynamic and power management and distribution systems are summarized.
Baraona, Cosmo R.↗
Status of space station power system
The major requirements and guidelines that affect the manned space station configuration and the power systems are explained. The evolution of the space station power system from the NASA program development feasibility phase through the current preliminary design phase is described. Several early station concepts are described and linked to the present concept. The recently completed phase B tradeoff study selections of photovoltaic system technologies are described. The present solar dynamic and power management and distribution systems are also summarized for completeness.
Baraona, Cosmo R.↗
Wind tunnel test results of heavy rain effects on airfoil performance
The effects of simulated heavy rain on the aerodynamic characteristics of a NACA 64-210 airfoil section equipped with high-lift devices were investigated in the NASA Langley 14- by 22-Foot Subsonic Tunnel. The experiment was part of an on-going NASA program to determine the effect of heavy rain on airplane performance, and was directed at providing insight into scaling laws for subscale model testing of rain effects. The model used in the investigation had a chord of 2.5 feet, a span of 8.0 feet, and was mounted on the tunnel centerline between two large endplates. A water spray distribution system was located 10 chord lengths upstream of the model. The sensitivity of test results to partial-span coverage of the model in the simulated rain environment as compared to full-span coverage was also investigated. The lift and drag data obtained for the high-lift configuration show excellent repeatability of results compared to the previous data. Results obtained for various spray concentrations and tunnel speeds showed significant losses in maximum lift capability, a decrease in the angle of attack for maximum lift, and an increase in drag as the stimulated rain rate was increased. The test results also indicated that the data were not strongly affected by surface tension effects for the high-lift configuration.
Bezos, G. M.↗
Martian settlement
The rationale for a manned Mars mission and the establishment of a base is divided into three areas: science, resource utilization, and strategic issues. The effects of a Mars mission on the objectives of near-term NASA programs, and the applications of these programs to a Mars mission are examined. The use of extraterrestrial resources to supply space settlements and thereby reduce transportation costs is studied; the development of systems for extraterrestrial materials processing will need to be researched. The possibility of a joint U.S./Soviet Mars mission is discussed by the symposium participants.
Roberts, Barney B.↗
Unified constitutive model for single crystal deformation behavior with applications
Single crystal materials are being used in gas turbine airfoils and are candidates for other hot section components because of their increased temperature capabilities and resistance to thermal fatigue. Development of a constitutive model which assesses the inelastic behavior of these materials has been studied in 2 NASA programs: Life Prediction and Constitutive Models for Engine Hot Section Anisotropic Materials and Biaxial Constitutive Equation Development for Single Crystals. The model has been fit to a large body of constitutive data for single crystal PWA 1480 material. The model uses a unified approach for computing total inelastic strains (creep plus plasticity) on crystallographic slip systems reproducing observed directional and strain rate effects as a natural consequence of the summed slip system quantities. The model includes several of the effects that have been reported to influence deformation in single crystal materials, such as shear stress, latent hardening, and cross slip. The model is operational in a commercial Finite Element code and is being installed in a Boundary Element Method code.
Walker, K. P.↗
Development of sensors for ceramic components in advanced propulsion systems: Survey and evaluation of measurement techniques for temperature, strain and heat flux for ceramic components in advanced propulsion systems
The report presents the final results of Tasks 1 and 2, Development of Sensors for Ceramic Components in Advanced Propulsion Systems (NASA program NAS3-25141). During Task 1, an extensive survey was conducted of sensor concepts which have the potential for measuring surface temperature, strain and heat flux on ceramic components for advanced propulsion systems. Each sensor concept was analyzed and evaluated under Task 2; sensor concepts were then recommended for further development. For temperature measurement, both pyrometry and thermographic phosphors are recommended for measurements up to and beyond the melting point of ceramic materials. For lower temperature test programs, the thin-film techniques offer advantages in the installation of temperature sensors. Optical strain measurement techniques are recommended because they offer the possibility of being useful at very high temperature levels. Techniques for the measurement of heat flux are recommended for development based on both a surface mounted sensor and the measurement of the temperature differential across a portion of a ceramic component or metallic substrate.
Atkinson, W. H.↗
A summary of atmospheric turbulence measurements with specially-equipped aircraft in the US
The technique of measurement of atmospheric turbulence in the form of true gust velocity is summarized. Specific aspects pointed out are related to NASA programs conducted over the last 15 years. Liberal use is made of references for details. Some recommendations resulting from a Spring 1986 workshop on atmospheric turbulence are also presented.
Murrow, H. N.↗
Lunar base objectives and open questions
The basic characteristics of the NASA program for establishing a lunar base are described and examined. The scientific objectives of the program are the planetological investigation of the moon and the use of the moon as a base for astronomical observations. It is argued that the development of a lunar base will assist in the advancement of science, the development of lunar resources to support space activities, and the development of a permanently, self-supported human colony away from the earth. The technological and operational capabilities needed in order to establish a lunar base are discussed.
Duke, Michael B.↗