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At least 235 records · Page 13

The Outer Solar System Origins Survey: Design and First-Quarter Discoveries - I.

We report the discovery, tracking, and detection circumstances for 85 trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs) from the first 42 square degrees of the Outer Solar System Origins Survey. This ongoing r-band solar system survey uses the 0.9 square degree field of view MegaPrime camera on the 3.6 meter Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope. Our orbital elements for these TNOs are precise to a fractional semimajor axis uncertainty of less than 0.1 percent. We achieve this precision in just two oppositions, as compared to the normal three to five oppositions, via a dense observing cadence and innovative astrometric technique. These discoveries are free of ephemeris bias, a first for large trans-Neptunian surveys. We also provide the necessary information to enable models of TNO orbital distributions to be tested against our TNO sample. We confirm the existence of a cold "kernel" of objects within the main cold classical Kuiper Belt and infer the existence of an extension of the "stirred" cold classical Kuiper Belt to at least several au beyond the 2:1 mean motion resonance with Neptune. We find that the population model of Petit et al. remains a plausible representation of the Kuiper Belt. The full survey, to be completed in 2017, will provide an exquisitely characterized sample of important resonant TNO populations, ideal for testing models of giant planet migration during the early history of the solar system.

Bannister, Michele T.↗

Wave tilt sounding of a linearly inhomogeneous layered half-space

The wave tilt of a transverse electric (TE) electromagnetic wave over a linearly inhomogeneous lossy layer overlying a homogeneous half-space is studied. Two approaches are used: an exact formulation using solutions of Airy's equation and an approximate numerical solution using a large number of homogeneous layers with a linearly increasing dielectric constant. The numerical results of both solutions are practically identical as long as the thickness of the layers in the approximate model are somewhat smaller than a quarter-wave length.

Warne, L.↗

Aerodynamics of a Simple Three-Dimensional High-Lift System

Experimental results are presented for a three-element high-lift system with a half-span flap and both a full- and three-quarter span slat. The simplified wing spanned the wind-tunnel test section with no wing sweep or wing tip. Full- and part-span slat configurations were tested to investigate the three-dimensional effects of a finite-span slat in a landing configuration. With a part-span slat, flow visualization and surface pressures revealed two vortices at the flap tip and one at the slat tip. Compared to the full-span slat case, the part-span slat configuration stalled at a lower angle of attack and yielded reduced lift at all angles of attack. At a representative approach attitude (10 deg), wake surveys indicated comparable induced drag for the full- and part-span slat configurations while the profile drag was more than doubled with a part-span slat. The vorticity contribution of the slat-tip vortex was minimal, suggesting that the vortex dissipates through viscous interaction with the main-element boundary layer. The addition of a lower-surface fence at the slat tip yielded two co-rotating vortices and partially alleviated the profile drag increase of the part-span slat.

Storms, Bruce↗

Algorithm for IAU north poles and rotation parameters

In 1970 the International Astronomical Union (IAU) defined any object's north pole to be that axis of rotation which lies north of the solar system's invariable plane. A competing definition in widespread use at some institutions followed the 'right hand rule' whereby the 'north' axis of rotation was generally said to be that of the rotational angular momentum. In the case of the latter definition, the planet Neptune and its satellite Triton would have their 'north' poles in opposite hemispheres because Triton's angular momentum vector is in the hemisphere opposite from that of Neptune's rotation angular momentum. The IAU resolutions have been somewhat controversial in some quarters ever since their adoption. A Working Group has periodically updated the recommended values of planet and satellite poles and rotation rates in accordance with the IAU definition of north and the IAU definition of prime meridian. Neither system is completely satisfactory in the perception of all scientists, and some confusion has been generated by publishing data in the two different systems. In this paper we review the IAU definitions of north and of the location of prime meridian and we present the algorithm which has been employed in determining the rotational parameters of the natural satellites. The IAU definition of the prime meridian contains some ambiguities which in practice have been 'specified' by the numerical values published by the IAU working group but which have not yet been explicitly documented. The purpose of this paper is to explicitly document the algorithm employed by the IAU working group in specifying satellite poles and rotation rates.

Lieske, J. H.↗

A metal sheet stiffened by a partially debonded composite quarter-plate

An isotropic sheet stiffened by means of an orthotropic quarter-plate is considered. The quarter-plate is assumed to be perfectly bonded to the metal sheet everywhere except an area of debonding which may develop due to high stress concentrations. The adhesive which has a small constant thickness is treated as a shear spring. The loads are applied at infinity and supposed to be transmitted through the metal plate. Shear stress distribution between the two plates was obtained from the continuity of displacements along an area where they were bonded to each other.

Arin, K.↗

Electrical properties of /DEPE/ /TCNQ/sub 4

The electrical conductivity of two phases of (DEPE) (TCNQ)sub 4 is evaluated using four probe and Montgomery methods. The highest values (approximately 50 Ohms/cm) were found along the b sub 0 axis of the monoclinic phase (I) crystals at room temperature. The resistivities are described as semiconducting. Thermopower is observed to saturate at high temperatures to 60 microvolts/deg K, characteristic of a quarter-filled correlated band. It is pointed out that a stable metallic state for (DEPE) (TCNQ)sub 4 is theoretically possible, but none has thus far been found.

Somoano, R. B.↗

Aeroacoustic theory for noncompact wing-gust interaction

Three aeroacoustic models for noncompact wing-gust interaction were developed for subsonic flow. The first is that for a two dimensional (infinite span) wing passing through an oblique gust. The unsteady pressure field was obtained by the Wiener-Hopf technique; the airfoil loading and the associated acoustic field were calculated, respectively, by allowing the field point down on the airfoil surface, or by letting it go to infinity. The second model is a simple spanwise superposition of two dimensional solutions to account for three dimensional acoustic effects of wing rotation (for a helicopter blade, or some other rotating planform) and of finiteness of wing span. A three dimensional theory for a single gust was applied to calculate the acoustic signature in closed form due to blade vortex interaction in helicopters. The third model is that of a quarter infinite plate with side edge through a gust at high subsonic speed. An approximate solution for the three dimensional loading and the associated three dimensional acoustic field in closed form was obtained. The results reflected the acoustic effect of satisfying the correct loading condition at the side edge.

Martinez, R.↗

Dielectric image-resonator multiplexer

A two, three or four channel multiplexer can be operated in the TE 01δ or HE 11δ modes, each channel of the multiplexer has one bandpass filter, with each filter usually having a plurality of cavities. One cavity of each filter is a common cavity with all of the other filters of the multiplexer. The common cavity contains one independent dielectric quarter-cut or half-cut image resonator for each filter representing a channel- of the multiplexer. Each resonator is mounted on a suitable support the common cavity provides a common junction and contains a loop coupling to couple electromagnetic energy between the various· channels. The multiplexer has at least one input and at least one output. Previous microwave multiplexers have a plurality of bandpass filters arranged on a coaxial manifold. With the multiplexer of the present invention, the manifold can be eliminated. Further, at the S-band or L-band, substantial weight and volume savings can be achieved using the multiplexer of the present invention without sacrificing performance. This can be very important for space applications.

Wai-Cheung Tang↗

A polarimeter for the high resolution ultraviolet spectrometer/polarimeter

The design requirements of the polarimeter were established by the scientific optical objectives of the experiment to be launched aboard the Solar Max Mission which will study active solar regions. The polarization of the light is accomplished by a rotating magnesium fluoride quarter wave plate. The quarter wave plates are rotated in 22 1/2 degree steps about an axis coincidental with the light beam. As the light beam passes through the wave plate, the transformation that occurs can be expressed by mathematical equations. By having the wave plates calibrated, the data obtained from solar flares can be analyzed and meaningful information provided to the investigators. The polarimeter has two wave plates with different optical characteristics to provide both redundancy and versatility. A four mirror polarizer was added behind one wave plate to provide additional polarization. The mechanical design, testing, and operation of the polarimeter for the high resolution ultraviolet spectrometer/polarimeter are described.

Calvert, J. A.↗

Simulation evaluation of a speed-guidance law for Harrier approach transitions

An exponential-deceleration speed guidance law is formulated which mimics the technique currently used by Harrier pilots to perform decelerating approaches to a hover. This guidance law was tested along with an existing two-step constant deceleration speed guidance law, using a fixed-base piloted simulator programmed to represent a YAV-8B Harrier. Decelerating approaches to a hover at a predetermined station-keeping point were performed along a straight (-3 deg glideslope) path in headwinds up to 40 knots and turbulence up to 6 ft./sec. Visibility was fixed at one-quarter nautical mile and 100 ft. cloud ceiling. Three Harrier pilots participated in the experiment. Handling qualities with the aircraft equipped with the standard YAV-8B rate damped attitude stability augmentation system were adequate (level 2) using either speed guidance law. However, the exponential deceleration speed guidance law was rated superior to the constant-deceleration speed guidance law by a Cooper-Harper handling qualities rating of about one unit independent of the level of wind and turbulence. Replacing the attitude control system of the YAV-8B with a high fidelity model following attitude flight controller increased the approach accuracy and reduced the pilot workload. With one minor exception, the handling qualities for the approach were rated satisfactory (level 1). It is concluded that the exponential deceleration speed guidance law is the most cost effective.

Merrick, Vernon K.↗

Infrared Heater Used in Qualification Testing of International Space Station Radiators

Two heat rejection radiator systems for the International Space Station (ISS) have undergone thermal vacuum qualification testing at the NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC), Plum Brook Station, Sandusky, Ohio. The testing was performed in the Space Power Facility (SPF), the largest thermal vacuum chamber in the world. The heat rejection system radiator was tested first; it removes heat from the ISS crew living quarters. The second system tested was the photovoltaic radiator (PVR), which rejects heat from the ISS photovoltaic arrays and the electrical power-conditioning equipment. The testing included thermal cycling, hot- and cold-soaked deployments, thermal gradient deployments, verification of the onboard heater controls, and for the PVR, thermal performance tests with ammonia flow. Both radiator systems are orbital replacement units for ease of replacement on the ISS. One key to the success of these tests was the performance of the infrared heater system. It was used in conjunction with a gaseous-nitrogen-cooled cryoshroud in the SPF vacuum chamber to achieve the required thermal vacuum conditions for the qualification tests. The heater, which was designed specifically for these tests, was highly successful and easily met the test requirements. This report discusses the heating requirements, the heater design features, the design approach, and the mathematical basis of the design.

Ziemke, Robert A.↗

Theoretical and Experimental Data for a Number of NACA 6A-Series Airfoil Sections

The NACA 6A-series airfoil sections were designed to eliminate the trailing-edge cusp which is characteristic of the NACA 6-series sections. Theoretical data are presented for NACA 6A-series basic thickness forms having the position of minimum pressure at 30-, 40-, and 50-percent chord and with thickness ratios varying from 6 percent to 15 percent. Also presented are data for a mean line designed to maintain straight sides on the cambered sections. The experimental results of a two dimensional wind tunnel investigation of the aerodynamic characteristics of five NACA 64A-series airfoil sections and two NACA 63A-series airfoil sections are presented. An analysis of these results, which were obtained at Reynolds numbers of 3 x 10(exp 6), 6 x 10(exp 6), and 9 x 10(exp 6), indicates that the section minimum drag and maximum lift characteristics of comparable NACA 6-series and 6A-series airfoil sections are essentially the same. The quarter-chord pitching-moment coefficients and angles of zero lift of NACA 6A-series airfoil sections are slightly more negative than those of corresponding NACA 6-series airfoil sections. The position of the aerodynamic center and the lift-curve slope of smooth NACA 6-series sections. The addition of standard leading-edge roughness causes the lift-curve slope of the newer sections to decrease with increasing airfoil thickness ratio.

Loftin, Laurence K., Jr.↗

Three-Stage InP Submillimeter-Wave MMIC Amplifier

A submillimeter-wave monolithic integrated- circuit (S-MMIC) amplifier has been designed and fabricated using an indium phosphide (InP) 35-nm gate-length high electron mobility transistor (HEMT) device, developed at Northrop Grumman Corporation. The HEMT device employs two fingers each 15 micrometers wide. The HEMT wafers are grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and make use of a pseudomorphic In0.75Ga0.25As channel, a silicon delta-doping layer as the electron supply, an In0.52Al0.48As buffer layer, and an InP substrate. The three-stage design uses coplanar waveguide topology with a very narrow ground-to-ground spacing of 14 micrometers. Quarter-wave matching transmission lines, on-chip metal-insulator-metal shunt capacitors, series thin-film resistors, and matching stubs were used in the design. Series resistors in the shunt branch arm provide the basic circuit stabilization. The S-MMIC amplifier was measured for S-parameters and found to be centered at 320 GHz with 13-15-dB gain from 300-345 GHz. This chip was developed as part of the DARPA Submillimeter Wave Imaging Focal Plane Technology (SWIFT) program (see figure). Submillimeter-wave amplifiers could enable more sensitive receivers for earth science, planetary remote sensing, and astrophysics telescopes, particularly in radio astronomy, both from the ground and in space. A small atmospheric window at 340 GHz exists and could enable ground-based observations. However, the submillimeter-wave regime (above 300 GHz) is best used for space telescopes as Earth s atmosphere attenuates most of the signal through water and oxygen absorption. Future radio telescopes could make use of S-MMIC amplifiers for wideband, low noise, instantaneous frequency coverage, particularly in the case of heterodyne array receivers.

Pukala, David↗

The Influence of Sweep on the Aerodynamic Loading of an Oscillating NACA0012 Airfoil

The effect of sweep on the dynamic response of the NACA 0012 airfoil was investigated. Unsteady chordwise distributed pressure data were obtained from a tunnel spanning wing equipped with 21 single surface transducers (13 on the suction side and 8 on the pressure side of the airfoil). The pressure data were obtained at pitching amplitudes of 8 and 10 degrees over a tunnel Mach number range of 0.10 to 0.46 and a pitching frequency range of 2.5 to 10.6 cycles per second. The wing was oscillated in the unswept and swept positions about the quarter-chord pivot axis relative to mean incidence angle settings of 0, 9, 12, and 15 degrees. A compilation of all the response data obtained during the test program is presented. These data are in the form of normal force, chord force, lift force, pressure drag, and moment hysteresis loops derived from chordwise integrations of the unsteady pressure distributions. The hysteresis loops are organized in two main sections. In the first section, the loop data are arranged to show the effect of sweep (lambda = 0 and 30 deg) for all available combinations of mean incidence angle, pitching amplitude, reduced frequency, and chordwise Mach number. The second section shows the effect of chordwise Mach number (MC = 0.30 and MC = 0.40) on the swept wing response for all available combinations of mean incidence angle, pitching amplitude, and reduced frequency.

St.hilaire, A. O.↗

Evaluation of the NASA/JSC Health Related Fitness Program

The effects of the NASA Health Related Fitness Program (HRFP), which includes a 12-week educational component (EC) and quarterly fitness retests (RT), on the results of periodic testing of fitness, body composition, and blood lipids were evaluated in three goups of pilots. These included the group of compliers (those who completed EC and not less than 75 percent RT), the noncompliers (completed EC and lesss than 75 percent RT), and the dropouts from EC. Results show that beneficial changes in physical activity found two years after the completion of the HRFP were related to both the completion of the EC and the periodic fitness reevaluations. These changes were associated with maximal oxygen consumption, percent body fat, body weight, and blood lipids.

Wier, Larry T.↗

Surface Development and Test Facility (SDTF) New R&D Simulator for Airport Operations

A new simulator, the Surface Development and Test Facility (SDTF) is under construction at the NASA Ames Research Center in Mountain View, California. Jointly funded by the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and NASA, the SDTF will be a testbed for airport surface automation technologies of the future. The SDTF will be operational in the third quarter of 1998. The SDTF will combine a virtual tower with simulated ground operations to allow evaluation of new technologies for safety, effectiveness, reliability, and cost benefit. The full-scale level V tower will provide a seamless 360 degree high resolution out-the-window view, and a full complement of ATC (air traffic control) controller positions. The imaging system will be generated by two fully-configured Silicon Graphics Onyx Infinite Reality computers, and will support surface movement of up to 200 aircraft and ground vehicles. The controller positions, displays and consoles can be completely reconfigured to match the unique layout of any individual airport tower. Dedicated areas will accommodate pseudo-airport ramp controllers, pseudo-airport operators, and pseudo-pilots. Up to 33 total personnel positions will be able to participate in simultaneous operational scenarios. A realistic voice communication infrastructure will emulate the intercom and telephone communications of a real airport tower. Multi-channel audio and video recording and a sophisticated data acquisition system will support a wide variety of research and development areas, such as evaluation of automation tools for surface operations, human factors studies, integration of terminal area and airport technologies, and studies of potential airport physical and procedural modifications.

Dorighi, Nancy S.↗

Experimental investigation of the flowfield of an oscillating airfoil

The flow field of an airfoil oscillated periodically over a wide range of reduced frequencies, 0 less than k less than 1.6, is studied experimentally at chord Reynolds numbers of R sub c = 22,000 and 44,000. The NACA0012 airfoil is pitched sinusoidally about one quarter chord between alpha of 5 deg and 25 deg. Detailed flow visualization and phase averaged vorticity measurements are carried out for k = 0.2 to document the evolution and the shedding of the dynamic stall vortex (DSV). In addition to the DSV, an intense vortex of opposite sign originates from the trailing edge just when the DSV is shed. After being shed into the wake, the two together take the shape of a large 'mushroom' while being convected away from the airfoil. The unsteady circulation around the airfoil and, therefore, the time varying component of the lift is estimated in a novel way from the shed vorticity flux and is found to be in good agreement with the lift variation reported by others. The delay in the shedding of the DSV with increasing k, as observed by previous researchers, is documented for the full range of k. The DSV, for example, is shed nearly at the maximum alpha of 25 deg at k = 0.2, but is shed at the minimum alpha of 5 deg at k = 0.8. At low k, the flowfield appears quasi-steady and the bluff body shedding corresponding to the maximum alpha (25 deg) dominates the unsteady fluctuations in the wake.

Panda, J.↗

Experimental investigation of the flowfield of an oscillating airfoil

The flowfield of an airfoil oscillated periodically over a wide range of reduced frequencies, 0 less than or = k less than or = 1.6 is studied experimentally at chord Reynolds numbers of R sub c = 22,000 and 44,000. The NACA0012 airfoil is pitched sinusoidally about one quarter chord between angles of attack (alpha) of 5 and 25 degrees. Detailed flow visualization and phase averaged vorticity measurements are carried out for k = 0.2 to document the evolution and the shedding of the dynamic stall vortex (DSV). In addition to the DSV, an intense vortex of opposite sign originates from the trailing edge just when the DSV is shed. After being shed into the wake, the two together take the shape of a large 'mushroom' while being convected away from the airfoil. The unsteady circulation around the airfoil and, therefore, the time varying component of the lift is estimated in a novel way from the shed vorticity flux and is found to be in good agreement with the lift variation reported by others. The delay in the shedding of the DSV with increasing k, as observed by previous researchers, is documented for the full range of k. The DSV, for example, is shed nearly at the maximum alpha of 25 degrees at k = 0.2, but is shed at the minimum alpha of 5 degrees at k = 0.8. At low k, the flowfield appears quasi-steady and the bluff body shedding corresponding to the maximum alpha (25 degrees) dominates the unsteady fluctuations in the wake.

Panda, J.↗