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At least 271 records · Page 15

Analysis of severe atmospheric disturbances from airline flight records

Advanced methods were developed to determine time varying winds and turbulence from digital flight data recorders carried aboard modern airliners. Analysis of several cases involving severe clear air turbulence encounters at cruise altitudes has shown that the aircraft encountered vortex arrays generated by destabilized wind shear layers above mountains or thunderstorms. A model was developed to identify the strength, size, and spacing of vortex arrays. This model is used to study the effects of severe wind hazards on operational safety for different types of aircraft. The study demonstrates that small remotely piloted vehicles and executive aircraft exhibit more violent behavior than do large airliners during encounters with high-altitude vortices. Analysis of digital flight data from the accident at Dallas/Ft. Worth in 1985 indicates that the aircraft encountered a microburst with rapidly changing winds embedded in a strong outflow near the ground. A multiple-vortex-ring model was developed to represent the microburst wind pattern. This model can be used in flight simulators to better understand the control problems in severe microburst encounters.

Wingrove, R. C.↗

Analysis of severe atmospheric disturbances from airline flight records

Advanced methods were developed to determine time varying winds and turbulence from digital flight data recorders carried aboard modern airliners. Analysis of several cases involving severe clear air turbulence encounters at cruise altitudes has shown that the aircraft encountered vortex arrays generated by destabilized wind shear layers above mountains or thunderstorms. A model was developed to identify the strength, size, and spacing of vortex arrays. This model is used to study the effects of severe wind hazards on operational safety for different types of aircraft. It is demonstrated that small remotely piloted vehicles and executive aircraft exhibit more violent behavior than do large airliners during encounters with high-altitude vortices. Analysis of digital flight data from the accident at Dallas/Ft. Worth in 1985 indicates that the aircraft encountered a microburst with rapidly changing winds embedded in a strong outflow near the ground. A multiple-vortex-ring model was developed to represent the microburst wind pattern. This model can be used in flight simulators to better understand the control problems in severe microburst encounters.

Wingrove, R. C.↗

Characterization of Si-Membrane TES Bolometer Arrays for the HIRMES Instrument

The High Resolution Mid-Infrared Spectrometer (HIRMES) instrument will fly onboard NASA's airborne Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) in 2019. HIRMES will provide astronomers with a unique observing window (25 122 µm) for exploring the evolution of protoplanetary disks into young solar systems, and the composition of our Solar System. There are two focal plane detector arrays for the instrument: a high-resolution (/ = 100,000) 8x16 detector array with a target noise-equivalent power, NEP 3x10-18 W/Hz; and a low-resolution (/ = 2,000 19,000) 16x64 detector array with a target NEP 2x10-17 W/Hz. The detectors for both of these arrays are superconducting Mo/Au bilayer transition edge sensor (TES) bolometers on thin suspended single-crystal silicon membranes. Here we present our characterization results for the detectors in both arrays, including measurements of thermal conductance with comparison to phonon transport models, saturation power, noise, and array uniformity.

Instrumentation and Photography↗

An Interface Specification for Urban Air Mobility Performance Models to Support Air Traffic Management Research

Performance modeling of Urban Air Mobility vehicles in support of Air Traffic Management research poses new challenges. These aircraft often rely on a combination of fixed-wing and rotorcraft performance capabilities to enable a new and still-evolving concept of high-volume operations in densely populated areas. These characteristics lead to variability in performance model format and functionality, complicating model development and leading to difficulties for users integrating the models into their applications. This paper describes an interface specification for performance models that is intended to help address this issue. The interface aims to support the core functionality of performance models while also providing the necessary flexibility to both model developers and users. The specification describes the required model documentation, required inputs to the model, and required outputs from the model in general terms that are adaptable to most programming languages. The utilization of an appropriate interface specification will support the development of an Urban Air Mobility performance model database and help to improve interoperability of these models for a broad array of user applications.

Trajectory Prediction↗

An Interface Specification for Urban Air Mobility Performance Models to Support Air Traffic Management Research

Performance modeling of Urban Air Mobility vehicles in support of Air Traffic Management research poses new challenges. These aircraft often rely on a combination of fixed-wing and rotorcraft performance capabilities to enable a new and still-evolving concept of high-volume operations in densely populated areas. These characteristics lead to variability in performance model format and functionality, complicating model development and leading to difficulties for users integrating the models into their applications. This paper describes an interface specification for performance models that is intended to help address this issue. The interface aims to support the core functionality of performance models while also providing the necessary flexibility to both model developers and users. The specification describes the required model documentation, required inputs to the model, and required outputs from the model in general terms that are adaptable to most programming languages. The utilization of an appropriate interface specification will support the development of an Urban Air Mobility performance model database and help to improve interoperability of these models for a broad array of user applications.

Trajectory Prediction↗

Fully‐Printed Ion Sensor Arrays for Measuring Agricultural Nitrogen and Potassium Concentrations Using Nernstian and AI Models

Abstract The chemical composition of growing media is a key factor for plant growth, impacting agricultural yield and sustainability. However, there is a lack of affordable chemical sensors for ubiquitous nutrient ion monitoring in agricultural applications. This work investigates using fully printed ion‐sensor arrays to measure the concentrations of nitrate, ammonium, and potassium in mixed‐electrolyte media. Ion sensor arrays composed of nitrate, ammonium, and potassium ion‐selective electrodes and a printed silver‐silver chloride (Ag/AgCl) reference electrode are fabricated and characterized in aqueous solutions in a range of concentrations that encompass what is typical for agricultural growing media (0.01 m m –1 m ). The sensors are also tested in mixed‐electrolyte solutions of NaNO 3 , NH 4 Cl, and KCl of varying concentrations, and the recorded potentials are input into Nernstian and artificial neural network models to compare the prediction accuracy of the models against ground truth. The artificial neural network models demonstrated higher accuracy over the Nernstian model, and the model using only ion‐sensor inputs is 7.5% more accurate than the Nernstian model under the same conditions. By enabling more precise and efficient fertilizer application, these sensor arrays coupled to computational models can help increase crop yields, optimize resource use, and reduce environmental impact.

Goodrich, Payton [University of California Berkele↗

On the use of maximum likelihood estimation for the assembly of Space Station Freedom

Distributed parameter models of the Solar Array Flight Experiment, the Mini-MAST truss, and Space Station Freedom assembly are discussed. The distributed parameter approach takes advantage of (1) the relatively small number of model parameters associated with partial differential equation models of structural dynamics, (2) maximum-likelihood estimation using both prelaunch and on-orbit test data, (3) the inclusion of control system dynamics in the same equations, and (4) the incremental growth of the structural configurations. Maximum-likelihood parameter estimates for distributed parameter models were based on static compliance test results and frequency response measurements. Because the Space Station Freedom does not yet exist, the NASA Mini-MAST truss was used to test the procedure of modeling and parameter estimation. The resulting distributed parameter model of the Mini-MAST truss successfully demonstrated the approach taken. The computer program PDEMOD enables any configuration that can be represented by a network of flexible beam elements and rigid bodies to be remodeled.

Taylor, Lawrence W., Jr.↗

High Rate User Ka-Band Phased Array Antenna Test Results

The High Rate User Phased Array Antenna (HRUPAA) is a Ka-Band planar phased array designed by the Harris Corporation for the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. The HRUPAA permits a satellite to downlink data either to a ground station or through the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS). The HRUPAA is scanned electronically by ground station / user satellite command over a 120 degree cone angle. The phased array has the advantage of not imparting attitude disturbances to the user spacecraft. The 288-element transmit-only array has distributed RF amplifiers integrated behind each of the printed patch antenna elements. The array has 33 dBW EIRP and is left-hand circularly polarized. An engineering model of a partially populated array has been developed and delivered to NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. This report deals with the testing of the engineering model at the Goddard Antenna Range near-field and compact range facilities. The antenna specifications are described first, followed by the test plan and test results.

Caroglanian, Armen↗

Aeroacoustic Computations of a Generic Low Boom Concept in Landing Configuration: Part 3 - Aerodynamic Validation and Noise Source Identification

Wind tunnel test data were used to validate the predicted aerodynamic behavior of a 15%-scale version of a generic, low-boom aircraft. The test was conducted in the NASA Langley 14- by 22-Foot Subsonic Tunnel to determine the low-speed aerodynamic characteristics of the model. Measured steady surface pressures and global forces were used to validate predicted aerodynamic results obtained from high-fidelity simulations of the model as installed in the tunnel. Very good agreement between predicted and measured aerodynamic trends was demonstrated, providing the impetus to proceed with companion airframe noise simulations that were conducted in a free-air setting. Computed near-field flow variables acquired on a permeable data surface were used to generate synthetic pressure records for two 800-element phased microphone arrays positioned overhead and to the side of the model. The array data were beamformed to generate noise source localization maps for the clean model and several landing configurations. Primary and secondary airframe sources were identified and their relative strengths were determined. Far-field integrated noise spectra for the full aircraft, as well as individual components, were obtained from the source maps via integration of tailored regions. The analysis showed that noise produced by the landing gear was the dominant contributor to the far-field acoustic signature of the model, followed by flap noise. The effects of permeable data surface end caps, spatial resolution, array orientation, angle of attack, component interaction, velocity scaling, and numerical precision on synthetic far-field spectra were also evaluated.

low boom↗

In-Situ Resource Utilization Modeling of a Lunar Water Processing System

A key element of achieving a sustained surface presence, such as defined in NASA’s Artemis plan, is In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU). ISRU is the practice of using local resources to provide mission consumables that reduce system launch mass requirements, and regenerate resources (chiefly, water and oxygen) for propulsion and life support supporting both Lunar and Martian missions. ISRU systems require multiple complex processes, such as excavation, chemical reactors, and electrolysis subsystems that must operate in harmony to optimize the overall system process from beginning to end. The Mission Analysis and Integration Tool (MAIT) was previously developed with MATLAB in FY22 to connect individual subsystem models into a customized, flexible framework for the purpose of technology downselect, optimization, and end-to-end process planning. Beginning in FY24, MAIT was leveraged and evolved using MATLAB/Simulink due to its ability to communicate with a vast number of other programming languages and makes up the backbone of data flow between inputs and outputs to the subsystem models. MAIT initially evaluated a suite of ISRU-related technologies, including the water processing Lunar Auger Dryer for ISRU (LADI) system with integrated upstream excavation and downstream electrolysis subsystems. With individual models consolidated, the MAIT tool generated over 60,000 cases during its parametric sweeps; these system iterations produced valuable insight into the optimal LADI geometry for minimizing energy demands, estimating carbothermal reactor and radiator mass relationships, and calculated the power dynamics of the electrolysis unit. Advanced efforts with advanced models will include examining multiple production targets to demonstrate the ability to scale ISRU technologies supporting the Space Technology Mission Directorate’s (STMD) commercialization strategy, and increase the MAIT software capability to handle a wide array of ISRU system models beyond the Lunar environment, e.g. production of propellant for a Martian lander.

Avery Carlson↗

Effect of Voltage Level on Power System Design for Solar Electric Propulsion Missions

This paper presents study results quantifying the benefits of higher voltage, electric power system designs for a typical solar electric propulsion spacecraft Earth orbiting mission. A conceptual power system architecture was defined and design points were generated for system voltages of 28-V, 50-V, 120-V, and 300-V using state-of-the-art or advanced technologies. A 300-V 'direct-drive' architecture was also analyzed to assess the benefits of directly powering the electric thruster from the photovoltaic array without up-conversion. Fortran and spreadsheet computational models were exercised to predict the performance and size power system components to meet spacecraft mission requirements. Pertinent space environments, such as electron and proton radiation, were calculated along the spiral trajectory. In addition, a simplified electron current collection model was developed to estimate photovoltaic array losses for the orbital plasma environment and that created by the thruster plume. The secondary benefits of power system mass savings for spacecraft propulsion and attitude control systems were also quantified. Results indicate that considerable spacecraft wet mass savings were achieved by the 300-V and 300-V direct-drive architectures.

Kerslake, Thomas W.↗

Unsteady Heat-Flux Measurements of Second-Mode Instability Waves in a Hypersonic Boundary Layer

In this paper we report on the application of the atomic layer thermopile (ALTP) heat- flux sensor to the measurement of laminar-to-turbulent transition in a hypersonic flat plate boundary layer. The centerline of the flat-plate model was instrumented with a streamwise array of ALTP sensors and the flat-plate model was exposed to a Mach 6 freestream over a range of unit Reynolds numbers. Here, we observed an unstable band of frequencies that are associated with second-mode instability waves in the laminar boundary layer that forms on the flat-plate surface. The measured frequencies, group velocities, phase speeds, and wavelengths of these instability waves are in agreement with data previously reported in the literature. Heat flux time series, and the Morlet-wavelet transforms of them, revealed the wave-packet nature of the second-mode instability waves. In addition, a laser-based radiative heating system was developed to measure the frequency response functions (FRF) of the ALTP sensors used in the wind tunnel test. These measurements were used to assess the stability of the sensor FRFs over time and to correct spectral estimates for any attenuation caused by the finite sensor bandwidth.

Kergerise, Michael A.↗

An Inflatable L-Band Microstrip SAR Array

Inflatable structures have been identified as one of the enabling technologies to achieve low mass, high packaging efficiency, and reliable deployment for future NASA spaceborne synthetic aperture radar (SAR) array antennas.

L-band↗

Analysis of Simulated and Experimental Noise Sources of Boeing 777 Main Gear Model via CLEAN in 3D

Previously obtained experimental and simulated phased microphone array data for the NASA 26%-scale model of a six-wheel main landing gear, with and without a toboggan-shaped noise reduction fairing, were analyzed using the CLEAN technique in three dimensions. The model is a high-fidelity representation of the Boeing 777-200 aircraft main landing gear. The reprocessing of the acoustic data was undertaken to address the deficiencies encountered in the source localization (beamform) maps and the integrated farfield spectra at mid to high frequencies in our previous study, where conventional array processing techniques were applied to the same data sets. Application of the CLEAN approach resulted in higher quality beamform maps with many of the previously observed side lobes either eliminated or suppressed significantly. As a result, integration of the experimentally and computationally based maps showed substantial improvement in the quality of the high-frequency spectral content relative to the corresponding spectra generated via conventional array processing, thus extending the good agreement achieved between the measured and predicted farfield spectra from 8 kHz to 14 kHz in model-scale frequencies. In addition, an examination of the simulated surface pressure fluctuations, off-surface flow field, and three-dimensionally constructed noise sources was conducted to determine the cause of the subtle discrepancies between measured and predicted sound pressure levels that occur in the 1,800 Hz to 4,000 Hz model-scale frequency range.

Ravetta, Patricio↗

"Intelligent Ensemble" Projections of Precipitation and Surface Radiation in Support of Agricultural Climate Change Adaptation

Earth's climate is changing and will continue to change into the foreseeable future. Expected changes in the climatological distribution of precipitation, surface temperature, and surface solar radiation will significantly impact agriculture. Adaptation strategies are, therefore, required to reduce the agricultural impacts of climate change. Climate change projections of precipitation, surface temperature, and surface solar radiation distributions are necessary input for adaption planning studies. These projections are conventionally constructed from an ensemble of climate model simulations (e.g., the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project 5 (CMIP5)) as an equal weighted average, one model one vote. Each climate model, however, represents the array of climate-relevant physical processes with varying degrees of fidelity influencing the projection of individual climate variables differently. Presented here is a new approach, termed the "Intelligent Ensemble, that constructs climate variable projections by weighting each model according to its ability to represent key physical processes, e.g., precipitation probability distribution. This approach provides added value over the equal weighted average method. Physical process metrics applied in the "Intelligent Ensemble" method are created using a combination of NASA and NOAA satellite and surface-based cloud, radiation, temperature, and precipitation data sets. The "Intelligent Ensemble" method is applied to the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 anthropogenic climate forcing simulations within the CMIP5 archive to develop a set of climate change scenarios for precipitation, temperature, and surface solar radiation in each USDA Farm Resource Region for use in climate change adaptation studies.

Taylor, Patrick C.↗