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NASA Global Satellite and Model Data Products and Services for Tropical Meteorology and Climatology

Satellite remote sensing and model data play an important role in research and applications of tropical meteorology and climatology over vast, data sparse oceans and remote continents. Since the first weather satellite was launched by NASA in 1960, a large collection of NASA's Earth science data is freely available to the research and application communities around the world, significantly improving our overall understanding of the Earth system and environment. Established in the mid-80s, the NASA Goddard Earth Sciences Data and Information Services Center (GES DISC), located in Maryland, USA, is a data archive center for multidisciplinary, satellite and model assimilation data products. As one of the 12 NASA data centers in Earth Sciences, GES DISC hosts several important NASA satellite missions for tropical meteorology and climatology such as the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM), the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission and the Modern-Era Retrospective analysis for Research and Applications (MERRA). Over the years, GES DISC has developed data services to facilitate data discovery, access, distribution, analysis and visualization, including Giovanni, an online analysis and visualization tool without the need to download data and software. Despite many efforts for improving data access, still quite a number of challenges remain, such as finding datasets and services for a specific research topic or project, especially for inexperienced users or users outside the remote sensing community. In this article, we list and describe major NASA satellite remote sensing and model datasets and services for tropical meteorology and climatology along with examples of using the data and services, in hope that may help users better utilize the information in their research and applications.

tropical meteorology and climatology, data, servic↗

A Conceptual Framework to Integrate Biodiversity, Ecosystem Function, and Ecosystem Service Models

Global biodiversity and ecosystem service models typically operate independently. Ecosystem service projections may therefore be overly optimistic because they do not always account for the role of biodiversity in maintaining ecological functions. We review models used in recent global model intercomparison projects and develop a novel model integration framework to more fully account for the role of biodiversity in ecosystem function, a key gap for linking biodiversity changes to ecosystem services. We propose two integration pathways. The first uses empirical data on biodiversity–ecosystem function relationships to bridge biodiversity and ecosystem function models and could currently be implemented globally for systems and taxa with sufficient data. We also propose a trait-based approach involving greater incorporation of biodiversity into ecosystem function models. Pursuing both approaches will provide greater insight into biodiversity and ecosystem services projections. Integrating biodiversity, ecosystem function, and ecosystem service modeling will enhance policy development to meet global sustainability goals.

biodiversity models↗

Mission Design Strategies for Rendezvous and Servicing of Sun-Earth Libration Point Missions

With the launch of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) and future launches of the Roman Space Telescope (RST) and larger telescopes such as the proposed Habitable Worlds Observatory (HWO), the questions of where and how to rendezvous to enable servicing of these telescope missions arise. To aid in determining the allowable locations to rendezvous for servicing from a trajectory design approach, our previous research and analysis has shown feasible transfer trajectories between the Sun-Earth Libration L2 region (Quasi-Halo orbit) and the Earth Moon vicinity (Distant Retrograde Orbit (DRO), Quasi-Halo Orbit, Halo Orbit, and Near Rectilinear Halo Orbit (NRHO)), along with the related transfer constraints and the corresponding total fuel mass costs. We now focus on operational-like optimal scenarios for these transfers to complete a rendezvous to permit servicing at various Libration orbit locations. In this paper, we address how operational navigation and maneuver execution uncertainties impact the rendezvous timing and fuel mass (via ΔV). While optimization techniques are applied to ensure minimal ΔVs, we also analyze various transfer trajectory durations and rendezvous arrival geometries. The analysis presented includes dynamical system approaches and applies optimization through several tools including the Adaptive Trajectory Design (ATD) module as an initial guess, numerical computation using the General Mission Analysis Tool (GMAT) and Systems Tool Kit (STK) with higher fidelity perturbation modeling, and recently developed optimization tools that incorporate dynamical systems directly into the optimization process. Transfer trajectory options examined include a direct transfer from Earth versus departures from the previously examined Earth-Moon regime orbits, e.g. NRHOs and DROs. A return from Sun-Earth to lunar vicinity for a complete servicing after a rendezvous in Sun-Earth orbit is also considered. The resultant ΔV’s for each scenario is provided with discussions on various transfer trades, rendezvous considerations, and orbital limitations from the dynamical systems. A Poincare-like mapping of trajectory and rendezvous conditions categorize feasible and optimum transfer approaches, dependent on Sun-Earth orbit mission parameters. The focus of this research addresses questions for upcoming trades regarding servicing options for current and future Sun-Earth L1 and L2 missions. By doing a comprehensive analysis approach (dynamical systems + high fidelity optimization with true operational constraints), this paper will serve as a guide for mission architecture and operational trade considerations.

Maneuver Design↗

Manned Systems Utilization Analysis. Study 2.1: Space Servicing Pilot Program Study

Space servicing automated payloads was studied for potential cost benefits for future payload operations. Background information is provided on space servicing in general, and on a pilot flight test program in particular. An fight test is recommended to demonstrate space servicing. An overall program plan is provided which builds upon the pilot program through an interim servicing capability. A multipayload servicing concept for the time when the full capability tug becomes operational is presented. The space test program is specifically designed to provide low-cost booster vehicles and a flight test platform for several experiments on a single flight.

Wolfe, R. R.↗

Joint aircraft loading/structure response statistics of time to service crack initiation

A reliability analysis for predicting the statistical distribution of time to fatigue crack initiation for aircraft structures in service is presented. The present analysis utilizes the statistical data of the specimen fatigue tests, the full-scale structure tests, and the statistical dispersion of aircraft service loads. The statistical distribution of the time to fatigue crack initiation of the full-scale structure under laboratory loading spectrum is assumed to be Weibull. The service loads for gust turbulences are modeled as Poisson processes for transport-type aircraft, while the maneuver loads are modeled as compound Poisson processes for fighter and training aircraft. It is found that the statistical distribution of time to fatigue crack initiation for aircraft structures in service is not Weibull and that the prediction on the basis of the Weibull distribution is unconservative, in particular in the early service time.

Yang, J.-N.↗

Flight service evaluation of Kevlar-49/epoxy composite panels in wide-bodied commercial transport aircraft

Kevlar-49 fairing panels, installed as flight service components on three L-1011s, were inspected after three years' service, and found to be performing satisfactorily. There are six Kevlar-49 panels on each aircraft, including sandwich and solid laminate wing-body panels, and 150 C service aft engine fairings. The service history to date indicates that Kevlar-49 epoxy composite materials have satisfactory service characteristics for use in aircraft secondary structure.

Stone, R. H.↗

Communication satellite services for special purpose users

The present study identifies potential satellite services, examines the technology necessary for efficient implementation of these services, and determines minimum service cost versus user network size. The generic satellite services evaluated comprise TV and radio distribution (for retransmission), video teleconferencing (interactive), audio/facsimile teleconferencing (interactive), multiplexed data/voice (point-to-point), and satellite-supported land mobile. Satellite costs are based on extrapolations from ongoing commercial satellite programs. Production methods, new technology, and effect of production quantities on present and future production costs are examined to provide information on earth station equipment cost versus the variable 'buy'. Six different launch vehicles from a Delta 2914 to a dedicated Shuttle and three frequency bands and both broadcast (no eclipse capability) and fixed service satellites are considered to assess the effect of satellite size on cost and performance. It is assumed that the user pays only for his prorata share of the space segment costs.

Wright, D. L.↗

Flight service evaluation of Kevlar-49 epoxy composite panels in wide-bodied commercial transport aircraft

Kevlar-49 fairing panels, installed as flight service components on three L-1011s, were inspected after five years' service. There are six Kevlar-49 panels on each aircraft: a left-hand and right-hand set of a wing-body sandwich fairing; a solid laminate under-wing fillet panel; and a 150 C (300 F) service aft engine fairing. The fairings have accumulated a total of 40,534 hours, with one ship set having 16,091 hours service as of Feb. 11, 1979. The Kevlar-49 components were found to be performing satisfactorily in service with no major problems, or any condition requiring corrective action. The only defects noted were minor impact damage, and a minor degree of fastener hole fraying and elongation. These are for the most part comparable to damage noted on fiberglass fairings.

Stone, R. H.↗

The value of improved telecommunications service to hospitals: A preliminary assessment

In view of the rapid rate of development of domestic telecommunication services and the emphasis on private networks, it was sought to determine if hospitals had major requirements which could be aggregated and served by such networks. The value of the information transfer services judged to be most promising over the next twenty years was evaluated, based on expenditures and activity levels in five hospitals and one management services firm and the judgement of their senior staff. An implicit assumption is that services will become affordable once the hospital industry aggregates its requirements. A methodology to evaluate the value of telecommunication services in a hospital was developed and tested.

Potter, J. G.↗

Computer control of a robotic satellite servicer

The advantages that will accrue from the in-orbit servicing of satellites are listed. It is noted that in a concept in satellite servicing which holds promise as a compromise between the high flexibility and adaptability of manned vehicles and the lower cost of an unmanned vehicle involves an unmanned servicer carrying a remotely supervised robotic manipulator arm. Because of deficiencies in sensor technology, robot servicing would require that satellites be designed according to a modular concept. A description is given of the servicer simulation hardware, the computer and interface hardware, and the software. It is noted that several areas require further development; these include automated docking, modularization of satellite design, reliable connector and latching mechanisms, development of manipulators for space environments, and development of automated diagnostic techniques.

Fernandez, K. R.↗

The 737 graphite composite flight spoiler flight service evaluation

A flight service report was prepared which covers the flight service experience of 111 graphite epoxy spoilers on 737 transport aircraft and related ground based environmental exposure of graphite epoxy material specimens. Spoilers were installed on 28 aircraft representing seven major airlines operating throughout the world. Tests of removed spoilers after the seventh year of service continue to indicate modest changes in composite strength properties. Two spoilers were tested, one with 6 and one with 7 years of service, and both had residual strengths that fall within the original static strength scatter band. Both these units had typical service included discrepancies when tested. Based on visual, ultrasonic, and destructive inspection there continues to be no evidence of moisture migration into the honeycomb core and no core corrosion in the deployed units.

Coggeshall, R. L.↗

Space operations center applications of satellite service equipment

Satellite servicing requirements for a continuously manned Space Operations Center (SOC) are discussed. Applications for Orbiter developed service equipment are described, together with representative satellite servicing operations for use on SOC. These services cover the full mission cycle from orbital deployment to on-orbit maintenance/repair and, eventually, removal from orbit. An orbiting base, such as the SOC, can provide many of the same services at less cost than the Space Shuttle transportation system.

Mccaffrey, R. W.↗

Executive and communications services to support the IPAD environment

The principal purposes of the prototype executive software are to provide a system independent interface to the underlying host system and to allow for extension to full IPAD executive services as described in the preliminary design. A basic set of functions is included in the prototype to meet the requirements of the other components of the prototype, principally IPID, the IPAD data management system. The functions were chosen so that they would be readily built on any of the proposed host systems with minimal redesign and execution overhead. The functions fall into five categories: access to host data, access to data files, access to communication services, data transformation, and instrumentation for performance measurement. Communication services provide message delivery between processes in a network of heterogeneous computers. Data transformation services and communication services ensure data type validity and data integrity of messages exchanged between processes.

Tanner, J. G.↗

Flight service evaluation of composite components on Bell 206L and Sikorsky S-76 helicopters

Progress on two programs to evaluate composite structural components in flight service on commercial helicopters is described. Thirty-six ship sets of composite components that include the litter door, baggage door, forward fairing, and vertical fin were installed on Bell Model 206L helicopters that are operating in widely different climatic areas. Four horizontal stabilizers and ten tail rotor spars that are production components on the S-76 helicopter were tested after prescribed periods of service to determine the effects of the operating environment on their performance. Concurrent with the flight evaluation, specimens from materials used to fabricate the components were exposed in ground racks and tested at specified intervals to determine the effects of outdoor environments. Results achieved from 14,000 hours of accumulated service on the 206L components, tests on a S-76 horizontal stabilizer after 1600 hours of service, tests on a S-76 tail rotor spar after 2300 hours service, and two years of ground based exposure of material coupons are reported.

Baker, D. J.↗

On-orbit spacecraft/stage servicing during STS life cycle

A comprehensive and repesentative set of shuttle payloads was identified for shuttle and space station servicing missions. The classes of servicing functions were determined and the general servicing support required for the set of referenced spacecraft was allocated. A candidtate strawman space station was depicted from a synthesis of space station concepts derived from NASA space station architecture studies done by eight contractors. The shuttle servicing hardware and kits were identified and their applicability in transitioning servicing capability to the space station was evaluated.

Source record↗

Approach for Service Life Extension of Explosive Devices for Aircraft Escape Systems

The service life evaluation of explosive devices used in a wide variety of aircraft escape systems is described. The purpose was to develop a service extension approach, supported by tests on candidate devices, to evaluate the effects of service, age, and degradation, and allow responsible, conservative, service life determinations. An overview is given on the recommended approach and experimental procedures for accurate service evaluations with test results on rigid and flexible explosive transfer lines, one-way transfers, and flexible linear shaped charges.

Bement, L. J.↗

Service-Life Extension of Explosive Escape Devices

Chemical and functional tests yield conservative service-life estimates. Approach to extension of service lives of explosive devices in aircraft escape system developed, supported by testing of representative candidate devices to evaluate quantitatively effects of service, age, and degradation, and to enable responsible, conservative service-life determinations. Five types of explosive components evaluated: rigid and flexible explosive transfer lines; one-way transfers; flexible, linear-shaped charges; and initiation-handles. Extension of service in realistic manner provides both cost savings and increased system reliability.

Bement, L. J.↗

Long-term environmental effects and flight service evaluation of composite materials

Results of a NASA-Langley sponsored research program to establish the long term effects of realistic flight environments and ground based exposure on advanced composite materials are presented. The effects of moisture, ultraviolet radiation, aircraft fuels and fluids, sustained stress, and fatigue loading are reported. Residual strength and stiffness as a function of exposure time and exposure location are reported for seven different material systems after 10 years of worldwide outdoor exposure. Flight service results of over 300 composite components installed on rotorcraft and transport aircraft are included. Over 4 million total component flight hours were accumulated on various aircraft since initiation of flight service in 1973. Service performance, maintenance characteristics, and residual strength of numerous composite components installed on commercial and military aircraft are reported as a function of flight hours and years in service. Residual strength test results of graphite/epoxy spoilers with 10 years of worldwide service and over 28,000 flight hours are reported.

Dexter, H. Benson↗