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NASA NTRS1985

Effects of multiquantum transitions on molecular populations in grain-forming circumstellar environments

Simplification of astrophysical calculations can be achieved by invoking the condition of local thermodynamic equilibrium; however, recent investigations suggest that this assumption may not be valid for certain astrophysical regions. To examine the effects of multiquantum translation to vibration transitions in expanding circumstellar envelopes, vibrational populations of the lowest 20 levels of CO have been calculated as a function of pressure and radiation density for H atom-CO collisions. Significant departure from local thermodynamic equilibrium is indicated, which implies lower dissociation rates for molecular components and a subsequent enhancement in the rate of grain formation by many orders of magnitude. Stabilization of intermediate species before they can dissociate may facilitate the formation of refractory grain cores in very hot, dilute outflows. As the present calculations indicate, laboratory measurements of state-to-state translation to vibration rates are needed for a more complete understanding of circumstellar chemistry.

Nuth, J. A.↗

NASA NTRS1985

Research in particles and fields

Research activities in Cosmic Rays, Gamma Rays, and Astrophysical Plasmas supported under NASA Grant NGR 05-002-160 are discussed. The report is divided into sections which describe the activities, followed by a bibliography. This group's research program is directed toward the investigation of the astrophysical aspects of cosmic rays and gamma rays and of the radiation and electromagnetic field environment of the Earth and other planets. These investigations are carried out by means of energetic particle and photon detector systems flown on spacecraft and balloons.

Stone, E. C.↗

NASA NTRS1986

The Sun at high spatial resolution: The physics of small spatial structures in a magnetized medium

An attempt is made to provide a perspective on the problem of spatial structuring on scales smaller than can presently be directly and regularly observed from the ground or with which current space-based instrumentation can be anticipated. There is abundant evidence from both observations and theory that such spatial structuring of the solar outer atmosphere is ubiquitous not only on the observed scales, but also on spatial scales down to (at least) the subarcsecond range. This is not to say that the results to be obtained from observations on these small scales can be anticipated: quite the opposite. What is clear instead is that many of the classic problems of coronal and chromospheric activity - involving the basic dissipative nature of magnetized plasmas - will be seen from a novel perspective at these scales, and that there are reasons for believing that dynamical processes of importance to activity on presently-resolved scales will themselves begin to be resolved on the sub-arcsecond level. Since the Sun is the only astrophysical laboratory for which there is any hope of studying these processes in any detail, this observatioinal opportunity is an exciting prospect for any student of magnetic activity in astrophysics.

Rosner, R. T.↗

NASA NTRS1986

Nineteenth International Cosmic Ray Conference. Conference Papers: Invited Rapporteur, Highlight, Miscellaneous, Volume 9

Invited talks, rapporteur talks, and highlight talks are included. Topics of the invited and highlight talks include astrophysical jets, gamma-ray line astronomy, cosmic rays and gamma rays in astrophysics, the early universe, elementary particle physics, solar flares and acceleration of energetic particles, cosmogenic nuclei, extragalactic astronomy, composition of solar flare particles, very high energy gamma ray sources, gamma-ray bursts, shock acceleration in the solar wind, cosmic rays in deep underground detectors, spectrum of cosmic rays at 10 to the 19th power eV, and nucleus-nucleus interactions.

Jones, F. C.↗

NASA NTRS1985

On stellar X-ray emission

Stellar X-ray astronomy represents an entirely new astronomical discipline which has emerged during the past five years. It lies at the crossroads of solar physics, stellar physics, and general astrophysics. The present review is concerned with the main physical problems which arise in connection with a study of the stellar X-ray data. A central issue is the extent to which the extrapolation from solar physics is justified and the definition (if possible) of the limits to such extrapolation. The observational properties of X-ray emission from stars are considered along with the solar analogy and the modeling of X-ray emission from late-type stars, the modeling of X-ray emission from early-type stars, the physics of stellar X-ray emission, stellar X-ray emission in the more general astrophysical context, and future prospects.

Rosner, R.↗

NASA NTRS1986

Search for ultraviolet emission lines from a hot gaseous halo in the edge-on galaxy NGC 4244

Short and long wavelength IUE spectra of the halo region in the edge-on galaxy NGC 4244 are analyzed in order to identify evidence of line emission at the level of 0.000001 ergs per cu cm sr/s. Features are found at 1245 A and 1402 A, having peaks four times greater than the rms intensity fluctuations of nearby spectra. The spectral features are identified with semi-forbidden N V, semi-forbidden S IV at 1240 A, and Si IV and semi-forbidden O IV multiplets at 1400 A, respectively. The appearance of high-peak features and the lack of astrophysically important lines in the sample are evidence of a gas near T = 10 exp 5.2 and emission measure (EM) equal to about 0.000001 pc. However, the case for the existence of such a gas is weakened due to the existence of two other similarly sized features with no identifiable astrophysical origin and the extremely faint nature of the candidate features. The assumed upper limit for the line intensities in NGC 4244 leads to the conclusion that at T less than 100,000 K any emitting gas is either highly clumped or has a p/k value of less than 1000 per cu cm K. It is suggested that if the observed low level features in the short wavelength spectrum are real, the temperature and emission measures allow for a single component gas in the halo of NGC 4244, and are in agreement with those derived by Paresce et al. (1983).

Deharveng, J.-M.↗

NASA NTRS1985

Neutron stars as cosmic hadron physics laboratories

Extensive observations of Her-1 with the Exosat satellite have led to a new understanding of both the dynamics of neutron-star superfluids and the free precession of neutron stars. Detailed microscopic calculations on neutron matter and the properties of the pinned crustal superfluid are provided to serve as a basis for comparing theory with observation on neutron stars. Topics discussed include the Hadron matter equation of state, neutron star structure, Hadron superfluids, the vortex creep theory, Vela pulsar glitches, astrophysical constraints on neutron matter energy gaps, the 35 day periodicity of Her-1, and the neutron matter equation of state. It is concluded that since the post-glitch fits and the identification of the 35th periodicity in Her X-1 as stellar wobble require a rigid neutron matter equation of state, the astrophysical evidence for such an equation seems strong, as well as that for an intermediate Delta(rho) curve.

Pines, D.↗

NASA NTRS1986

Research and technology, fiscal year 1986, Marshall Space Flight Center

The Marshall Space Flight Center is continuing its vigorous efforts in space-related research and technology. Extensive activities in advanced studies have led to the approval of the Orbital Maneuvering Vehicle as a new start. Significant progress was made in definition studies of liquid rocket engine systems for future space transportation needs and the conceptualization of advanced laucnch vehicles. The space systems definition studies have brought the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility and Gravity Probe-B to a high degree of maturity. Both are ready for project implementation. Also discussed include significant advances in low gravity sciences, solar terrestrial physics, high energy astrophysics, atmospheric sciences, propulsion systems, and on the critical element of the Space Shuttle Main Engine in particular. The goals of improving the productivity of high-cost repetitive operations on reusable transportation systems, and extending the useful life of such systems are examined. The research and technology highlighted provides a foundation for progress on the Hubble Space Telescope, the Space Station, all elements of the Space Transportation System, and the many other projects assigned to this Center.

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NASA NTRS1987

Research in particles and fields

The astrophysical aspects of cosmic rays and gamma rays and the radiation and electromagnetic field environment of the Earth and other planets are investigated. These investigations are carried out by means of energetic particle and photon detector systems flown on spacecraft and balloons. Particle astrophysics is directed toward the investigation of galactic, solar, interplanetary, and planetary energetic particles and plasmas. The emphasis is on precision measurements with high resolution in charge, mass, and energy. Gamma ray research is directed toward the investigation of galactic, extragalactic, and solar gamma rays with spectrometers of high angular resolution and moderate energy resolution carried on spacecraft and balloons.

Stone, E. C.↗

NASA NTRS1986

Physics through the 1990s: Plasmas and fluids

The volume contains recommendations for programs in, and government support of, plasma and fluid physics. Four broad areas are covered: the physics of fluids, general plasma physics, fusion, and space and astrophysical plasmas. In the first section, the accomplishments of fluid physics and a detailed review of its sub-fields, such as combustion, non-Newtonian fluids, turbulence, aerodynamics, and geophysical fluid dynamics, are described. The general plasma physics section deals with the wide scope of the theoretical concepts involved in plasma research, and with the machines; intense beam systems, collective and laser-driven accelerators, and the associated diagnostics. The section on the fusion plasma research program examines confinement and heating systems, such as Tokamaks, magnetic mirrors, and inertial-confinement systems, and several others. Finally, theory and experiment in space and astrophysical plasma research is detailed, ranging from the laboratory to the solar system and beyond. A glossary is included.

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NASA NTRS1987

Superfluid helium on orbit transfer (SHOOT)

A number of space flight experiments and entire facilities require superfluid helium as a coolant. Among these are the Space Infrared Telescope Facility (SIRTF), the Large Deployable Reflector (LDR), the Advanced X-ray Astrophysics Facility (AXAF), the Particle Astrophysics Magnet Facility (PAMF or Astromag), and perhaps even a future Hubble Space Telescope (HST) instrument. Because these systems are required to have long operational lifetimes, a means to replenish the liquid helium, which is exhausted in the cooling process, is required. The most efficient method of replenishment is to refill the helium dewars on orbit with superfluid helium (liquid helium below 2.17 Kelvin). To develop and prove the technology required for this liquid helium refill, a program of ground and flight testing was begun. The flight demonstration is baselined as a two flight program. The first, described in this paper, will prove the concepts involved at both the component and system level. The second flight will demonstrate active astronaut involvement and semi-automated operation. The current target date for the first launch is early 1991.

Dipirro, Michael J.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Astronomic Telescope Facility: Preliminary systems definition study report. Volume 2: Technical description

The Astrometric Telescope Facility (AFT) is to be an earth-orbiting facility designed specifically to measure the change in relative position of stars. The primary science investigation for the facility will be the search for planets and planetary systems outside the solar system. In addition the facility will support astrophysics investigations dealing with the location or motions of stars. The science objective and facility capabilities for astrophysics investigations are discussed.

Sobeck, Charlie↗

NASA NTRS1987

Antiprotons in cosmic rays

Recent experimental observations and results are discussed. It was found that the approximately 50 antiprotons collected in balloon experiments to date have generated considerable theoretical interest. Clearly, confirmatory experiments and measurements over an extended energy range are required before definite conclusions are drawn. Antiproton measurements have a bearing on astrophysical problems ranging from cosmic ray propagation to issues of cosmological import. The next generation of balloon experiments and the Particle Astrophysics Magnet Facility being discussed for operation on NASA's space station should provide data and insights of highest interest.

Balasubrahmanyan, V. K.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Research in particles and fields

Discussed are the research activities in Cosmic Rays, Gamma Rays, and Astrophysical Plasmas supported under NASA Grant NGR 05-002-160. The report is divided into sections which describe the activities, followed by a bibliography. This research program is directed toward the investigation of the astrophysical aspects of cosmic rays and gamma rays and of the radiation and electromagnetic field environment of the Earth and other planets. These investigations are carried out by means of energetic particle and photon detector systems flown on spacecraft and balloons.

Stone, E. C.↗

NASA NTRS1987

The Perseus Flasher and satellite glints

The Perseus Flasher (PF) is claimed to be an astrophysical source which frequently emits bright optical flashes (Katz et al. 1986). These flashes have all been detected by the naked eye, with the exception of one photographed flash for which an accurate position is measured. Notable properties of the PF are its large amplitude (greater than 19 mag), short duration (about 1 s), and frequent occurrence (a flash every 12 hr). Here, evidence is presented that the PF is not an astrophysical source but is merely the observation of glints of reflected sunlight from artificial earth satellites. This conclusion is supported by the following facts: (1) a total of 3400 hr of photographic, video, and CCD observations have detected no flashes in or near the small PF error box, despite the claim of one bright flash every 12 hr; (2) thirteen of the 26 flashes are shown to be nonastrophysical in origin; and (3) both the observational and theoretical glint rates indicate that most, if not all, PF observations are caused by satellite glints.

Schaefer, Bradley E.↗

NASA NTRS1987

Infrared observations of contaminants from Shuttle flight 51-F

A small helium-cooled infrared telescope, IRT, was flown on the Shuttle in July/August 1985. The principal astrophysical objectives were to measure the large scale structure of sources and the background radiation. A cold shutter was incorporated to permit absolute flux measurements. Additionally, the engineering objectives included setting upper limits on the infrared radiation from the local environment. Even though the local background overwhelmed the astrophysical background, astronomical sources were still detectable superimposed on this background radiation. Data are presented covering the spectral range from 2 microns to 120 microns. The spatial, spectral, and temporal variations are described. Based on the spectral character and variability in different wavelength bands, the background radiation does not appear to have a single origin. In this paper, the results on the Shuttle environment are presented.

Koch, D. G.↗

NASA NTRS1988

S-process krypton of variable isotopic composition in the Murchison meteorite

Data are reported which, for the first time, permit the derivation of the full isotopic spectrum of s-process krypton with reasonable precision. It is shown that this s-Kr in a residue from the Murchison meteorite did not originate in one single s-process but rather is a mixture of contributions from stellar environments where the density of free neutrons was not the same. The astrophysical conditions under which this krypton was produced were distinct from those that have been invoked to explain the solar system s-process abundance. Similar to the C-13-rich carbon component in an aliquot of the same residue, the s-process Kr from different astrophysical sites has retained its identity during the accumulation and subsequent history of the meteorite.

Ott, Urlich↗

NASA NTRS1988

Ground based infrared astronomy

Infrared spectroscopic instrumentation has been developed for ground-based measurements of astrophysical objects in the intermediate infrared. A conventional Michelson interferometer is limited for astronomical applications in the intermediate infrared by quantum noise fluctuations in the radiation form the source and/or background incident on the detector, and the multiplex advantage is no longer available. One feasible approach to recovering the multiplex advantage is post-dispersion. The infrared signal after passing through telescope and interferometer, is dispersed by a low resolution grating spectrometer onto an array of detectors. The feasibility of the post-dispersion system has been demonstrated with observations of astrophysical objects in the 5 and 10 micrometer atmospheric windows from ground-based telescopes. During FY87/88 the post-disperser was used at the Kitt Peak 4-meter telescope and McMath telescope with facility Fourier transform spectrometers. Jupiter, Saturn, Mars, and Venus were observed. On Jupiter, the resolution at 12 micrometer was 0.01/cm, considerably higher than had been acheived previously. The spectrum contains Jovian ethane and acetylene emission. Construction was begun on the large cryogenic grating spectrometer.

Jennings, D. E.↗