Engineering topics

Schubert, Gerald

Publications and source records attributed to Schubert, Gerald.

58 records · Page 4

NASA NTRS1987

Finite element models of non-Newtonian crater relaxation

The effects of a non-Newtonian rheology on the profiles of relaxing craters (such as those seen on the surfaces of the icy Galilean and Saturnian satellites) were studied. Two-dimensional finite element simulations of non-Newtonian viscous flow were performed, and the results were compared with those associated with Newtonian rheology. Viscous relaxation of craters in a non-Newtonian medium was significantly different from that in a Newtonian medium. Crater rims are observed to relax at a more rapid rate in a non-Newtonian region as a result of the movement of the low viscosity region to underneath the crater rim after the initial relaxation of the bowl. Significant differences are also found when central depth is plotted as a function of time. For a Newtonian medium, crater relaxation is exponential in form. In contrast, non-Newtonian crater relaxation is initially rapid, in response to the large initial stresses and small viscosities; however, as stresses decrease, this relaxation becomes extremely gradual.

Thomas, Paul J.↗

NASA NTRS1986

Dissipative tides - Application to Venus' lower atmosphere

A linearized planetary scale wave model is used to investigate the effects of thermal and mechanical damping on atmospheric tides. When the damping rate is comparable to the frequency of solar diurnal forcing the circulation consists of three parts: a classical vertically propagating 'atmospheric tide' in the upper atmosphere, a simple thermally direct subsolar-to-antisolar circulation or 'Halley cell' in most of the lower atmosphere, and finally, a reversed 'anti-Halley cell' near the surface. The near-surface circulation produces horizontal divergence near the subsolar point. While tides are a frequently encountered phenomenon (Venus, earth, and Mars), there is so far no observational evidence of a Halley circulation in any planetary atmosphere. A subsolar-antisolar circulation might be possible in Venus' slowly rotating lower atmosphere if the mechanical dissipation time scale is of the order of or less than a Venusian day. Such a circulation could be a factor in maintaining the superrotation of Venus' upper atmosphere.

Covey, Curt↗

NASA NTRS1986

Lunar and Planetary Science Conference, 17th, Houston, TX, Mar. 17-21, 1986, Proceedings. Part 1

Papers are presented on lunar geology, petrology, and surface evolution, and the analysis and origins of meteorites. Consideration is given to Martian geology, volcanology, and soil, and the characteristics of Venus and Ganymede. Also discussed are terrestrial and general planetary studies, in particular the early evolution of the earth, shock-loaded oligoclase and bytonite, and Muong Nong type tektites from the Moldavite and North American strewn fields.

Ryder, Graham↗

NASA NTRS1986

Thermal histories, compositions and internal structures of the moons of the solar system

Thermal evolution models of satellites are discussed with emphasis placed on the fundamental physical processes common to all planetary bodies. A comparison is made between the different evolutionary tracks followed by individual satellites. Consideration is given to the compositions and structures of satellites, heat sources, relevant thermal and mechanical properties of the materials in satellite interiors, and heat transfer mechanisms. Thermal history scenarios are presented for the majority of the satellites of the solar system and these are related to the constraints imposed by surface geology.

Schubert, Gerald↗