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At least 37 records · Page 2

Radius and brightness temperature observations of Titan at centimeter wavelengths by the Very Large Array

Brightness and radius measurements of the surface of Titan at 6, 2, and 1.3 cm wavelengths obtained with the Very Large Array radio interferometer are presented. Combined results for the three wavelengths indicate that the radius is 2400 + or - 250 km, implying a density of 2.4 + or - 0.7 g/cu cm, and that the brightness temperature is 87 + or - 9 K. The surface temperature may be somewhat higher if the emissivity is less than unity. The new data do not permit a choice between an inversion model for the atmosphere of Titan that predicts a surface temperature of 78 K and a model with both a stratospheric temperature inversion and a modest greenhouse effect that would increase the surface temperature by 10-40 K.

Jaffe, W.↗

Simultaneous Solar Maximum Mission and Very Large Array (VLA) observations of solar active regions

Simultaneous observations of solar active regions with the Solar Maximum Mission (SMM) Satellite and the Very Large Array (VLA) have been obtained and analyzed. Combined results enhance the scientific return for beyond that expeted from using either SMM or VLA alone. A total of two weeks of simultaneous SMM/VLA data were obtained. The multiple wavelength VLA observations were used to determine the temperature and magnetic structure at different heights within coronal loops. These data are compared with simultaneous SMM observations. Several papers on the subject are in progress. They include VLA observations of compact, transient sources in the transition region; simultaneous SMM/VLA observations of the coronal loops in one active region and the evolution of another one; and sampling of the coronal plasma using thermal cyclotron lines (magnetic field - VLA) and soft X ray spectral lines (electron density and electron temperaure-SMM).

Lang, K. R.↗

Phasing the Very Large Array on Galileo in the presence of Jupiter's strong radio emission

Work is in progress to determine the feasibility of using the Very Large Array (VLA) radio telescope to receive telemetry from Galileo during its close encounter with Io on 7 Dec. 1995. The VLA was used previously to receive telemetry from Voyager 2 at Neptune. However, Jupiter's strong radio emission is an additional complication in the case of the Galileo encounter. This article analyzes the effect of Jupiter's radio emission on the phase-adjustment procedure ('autophasing') used to maintain coherence among the 27 VLA antennas. Results of an experiment designed to mimic the Io encounter are presented. As expected, Jupiter's strong radio emission has a considerable effect on the autophasing procedure. A simple emission model is found to give a good approximation to the fringe-visibility plots derived from the VLA data, and that successful model is used to estimate the VLA's ability to autophase on Galileo during the Io encounter. The effect of Jupiter should be small for projected baselines longer than approximately 800 m and completely negligible for projected baselines longer than approximately 1.1 km. The most extended configuration of the VLA (the A configuration) probably can be used successfully for telemetry reception during the Io encounter. Further analysis and testing of the effect of correlated noise from Jupiter is necessary before a final decision can be made about the feasibility of using the second largest (B) configuration of the VLA for reception of Galileo telemetry. Use of the B configuration could simplify the upgrades needed to support the Io encounter. Tests to help choose the preferred VLA configuration could be performed by using the VLA to observe the Magellan spacecraft at Venus during Jul. and Oct. 1991. Examination of the effects of planet noise on the VLA have implications beyond the use of that telescope for supporting the Io encounter. The effects of planet radio emission on spacecraft data received by antenna arrays are relevant to choosing the exact locations of antennas that might be built by the Deep Space Network in coming years.

Ulvestad, J. S.↗

A VLA (Very Large Array) Search for 5 GHz Radio Transients and Variables at Low Galactic Latitudes

We present the results of a 5GHz survey with the Very Large Array (VLA) and the expanded VLA, designed to search for short-lived (approx < 1 day) transients and to characterize the variability of radio sources at milli-Jansky levels. A total sky area of 2.66 sq. deg, spread over 141 fields at low Galactic latitudes (b approx equals 6 - 8 deg) was observed 16 times with a cadence that was chosen to sample timescales of days, months and years. Most of the data were reduced, analyzed and searched for transients in near real time. Interesting candidates were followed up using visible light telescopes (typical delays of 1 - 2 hr) and the X-Ray Telescope on board the Swift satellite. The final processing of the data revealed a single possible transient with a flux density of f(sub v) approx equals 2.4mJy. This implies a transients sky surface density of kappa(f(sub v) > 1.8mJy) = 0.039(exp +0.13,+0.18) (sub .0.032,.0.038) / sq. deg (1, 2 sigma confidence errors). This areal density is consistent with the sky surface density of transients from the Bower et al. survey extrapolated to 1.8mJy. Our observed transient areal density is consistent with a Neutron Stars (NSs) origin for these events. Furthermore, we use the data to measure the sources variability on days to years time scales, and we present the variability structure function of 5GHz sources. The mean structure function shows a fast increase on approximately 1 day time scale, followed by a slower increase on time scales of up to 10 days. On time scales between 10 - 60 days the structure function is roughly constant. We find that approx > 30% of the unresolved sources brighter than 1.8mJy are variable at the > 4-sigma confidence level, presumably due mainly to refractive scintillation.

Ofek, E. O.↗

Expanded Very Large Array Nova Project Observations of the Classical NovaV1723 Aquilae

We present radio light curves and spectra of the classical nova VI723 Aql obtained with the Expanded Very Large Array (EVLA). This is the first paper to showcase results from the EVLA Nova Project, which comprises a team of observers and theorists utilizing the greatly enhanced sensitivity and frequency coverage of EVLA radio observations, along with observations at other wavelengths, to reach a deeper understanding of the energetics, morphology, and temporal characteristics of nova explosions. Our observations of VI723 Aql span 1-37 GHz in frequency, and we report on data from 14 to 175 days following the time of the nova explosion. The broad frequency coverage and frequent monitoring show that the radio behavior of VI723 Aql does not follow the classic Hubble-flow model of homologous spherically expanding thermal ejecta. The spectra are always at least partially optically thin, and the flux rises on faster timescales than can be reproduced with linear expansion. Therefore, any description of the underlying physical processes must go beyond this simple picture. The unusual spectral properties and light curve evolution might be explained by multiple emitting regions or shocked material. Indeed, X-ray observations from Swift reveal that shocks are likely present.

Krauss, Miriam I.↗

Deep Very Large Array Observations of the Merging Cluster CIZA J2242.8+5301: Continuum and Spectral Imaging

Despite the progress that has been made in understanding radio relics, there are still open questions regarding the underlying particle acceleration mechanisms. In this paper, we present deep 1–4 GHz Very Large Array (VLA) observations of CIZA J2242.8+5301 ( z = 0.1921), a double radio relic cluster characterized by small projection on the plane of the sky. Our VLA observations reveal, for the first time, the complex morphology of the diffuse sources and the filamentary structure of the northern relic. Additionally, we discover new, faint, diffuse radio emission extending north of the main northern relic. Our Mach number estimates for the northern and southern relics, based on the radio spectral index map obtained using the VLA observations and existing LOw Frequency ARray (LOFAR) and Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope data, are consistent with previous radio and X-ray studies ( and ). However, color–color diagrams and models suggest a flatter injection spectral index than the one obtained from the spectral index map, indicating that projection effects might be not entirely negligible. The southern relic consists of five "arms." Embedded in it, we find a tailed radio galaxy that seems to be connected to the relic. A spectral index flattening, where the radio tail connects to the relic, is also measured. We propose that the southern relic may trace AGN fossil electrons that are reaccelerated by a shock, with an estimated strength of . High-resolution mapping of other tailed radio galaxies also supports a scenario where AGN fossil electrons are revived by the merger event and could be related to the formation of some diffuse cluster radio emission.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Search for Electromagnetic Counterparts to LIGO-Virgo Candidates: Expanded Very Large Array Observations

This paper summarizes a search for radio wavelength counterparts to candidate gravitational wave events. The identification of an electromagnetic counterpart could provide a more complete understanding of a gravitational wave event, including such characteristics as the location and the nature of the progenitor. We used the Expanded Very Large Array (EVLA) to search six galaxies which were identified as potential hosts for two candidate gravitational wave events. We summarize our procedures and discuss preliminary results.

methods↗

Composite Behavior of Nanopore Array Large Memristors

Synthetic nanopores were recently demonstrated with memristive and nonlinear voltage-current behaviors, akin to ion channels in a cell membrane. Such ionic devices are considered a promising candidate for the development of brain-inspired neuromorphic computing techniques. In this work, we show the composite behavior of nanopore-array large memristors, formed with different membrane materials, pore sizes, electrolytes, and device arrangements. Anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membranes with 5 nm and 20 nm diameter pores and track-etched polycarbonate (PCTE) membranes with 10 nm diameter pores are tested and shown to demonstrate memristive and nonlinear behaviors with approximately 107–1010 pores in parallel when electrolyte concentration across the membranes is asymmetric. Ion diffusion through the large number of channels induces time-dependent electrolyte asymmetry that drives the system through different memristive states. The behaviors of series composite memristors with different configurations are also presented. In addition to helping understand fluidic devices and circuits for neuromorphic computing, the results also shed light on the development of field-assisted ion-selection-membrane filtration techniques as well as the investigations of large neurons and giant synapses. Further work is needed to de-embed parasitic components of the measurement setup to obtain intrinsic large memristor properties.

Chemistry↗

Very Large Array imaging rules out precessing radio jets in three DES–SDSS-selected candidate periodic quasars

ABSTRACT Periodic quasars have been suggested as candidates for hosting binary supermassive black holes (SMBHs), although alternative scenarios remain possible to explain the optical light-curve periodicity. To test the alternative hypothesis of precessing radio jet, we present deep 6 GHz radio imaging conducted with NSF’s Karl G. Jansky Very Large Array (VLA) in its C configuration for the three candidate periodic quasars, DES J024703.24−010032.0, DES J024944.66−000036.8, and DES J025214.67−002813.7. Our targets were selected based on their optical variability using 20 yr long multicolour light curves from the Dark Energy Survey (DES) and the Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). The new VLA observations show that all three periodic quasars are radio-quiet with the radio loudness parameters measured to be $R\equiv f_{6\, {\rm cm}}/f_{{\rm 2500}}$ of ≲1.0–1.5 and the k-corrected luminosities νLν[6 GHz] of ≲5–21 × 1039 erg s−1. They are in stark contrast to previously known periodic quasars proposed as binary SMBH candidates such as the blazar OJ 287 and PG1302−102. Our results rule out optical emission contributed from precessing radio jets as the origin of the optical periodicity in the three DES–SDSS-selected candidate periodic quasars. Future continued optical monitoring and complementary multiwavelength observations are still needed to further test the binary SMBH hypothesis as well as other competing scenarios to explain the optical periodicity.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗

Layout Of Antennas And Cables In A Large Array

Layout devised to minimize total land area occupied by large phased array of antennas and to minimize total length of cables in array. In original intended application, array expanded version of array of paraboloidal-dish microwave communication antennas of Deep Space Network. Layout also advantageous for other phased arrays of antennas and antenna elements, including notably printed-circuit microwave antenna arrays.

Logan, Ronald T., Jr.↗

Flow visualization of film cooling with spanwise injection from a small array of holes and compound-angle injection from a large array

Film injection from discrete holes in a smooth, flat plate was studied for two configurations: (1) spanwise injection through a four hole staggered array; and (2) compound angle injection through a 49 hole staggered array. The ratio of boundary layer thicknesses to hole diameter and the Reynolds number were typical of gas turbine film cooling applications. Streaklines showing the motion of the injected air were obtained by photographing small, neutrally buoyant, helium-filled soap bubbles that followed the flow field.

Russell, L. M.↗

Automated co-adding and energy calibration of large array microcalorimeter data with zero sample knowledge

State-of-the-art microcalorimeter spectrometers now contain large detector arrays with hundreds of individual pixels. Each individual pixel outputs a unique and non-linear response with respect to deposited energy. This work describes a pattern-recognition algorithm to combine these responses into a single energy-calibrated histogram, referred to as co-adding pixels. Photo-peaks from different pixels are matched together based upon how well the match aligns the centroids and heights of neighboring peaks. This usually results in around 100 co-adding calibration points from 30 to 300 keV for a several day acquisition of plutonium items with masses between 0.5 and 10 grams. An additional algorithm energy-calibrates this co-added spectrum using the fluoresced K x-ray emissions from a tantalum absorber and inherent x-ray escape peaks from the tin absorbers. Both algorithms operate without knowledge of the source and are fully automated. This work presents results from the acquisitions of high and low burnup plutonium, 10% enriched uranium, a 153 Gd calibration source, and a 57 Co+ 166m Ho calibration source. In all measurements, resolution defined as the full-width at half-maximum (FWHM) of photo-peaks is preserved between the individual pixel and co-added spectra at around 65 eV for incident photon energies between 60 and 208 keV. The energy calibration algorithm is approximate and yields a calibration curve off by an average of around 200 eV for incident photon energies between 60 and 208 keV.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

The Deep Space Network large array

The Deep Space Network (DSN) is primarily used for telecommunications with scientific spacecraft engaged in solar system exploration.

DSN↗

A Large Array of Small Antennas to Support Future NASA Missions

A team of engineers and scientists at JPL is currently working on the design of an array of small radio antennas with a total collecting area up to twenty times that of the largest existing (70 m) DSN antennas. An array of this size would provide obvious advantages for high data rate telemetry reception and for spacecraft navigation. Among these advantages are an order-of-magnitude increase in sensitivity for telemetry downlink, flexible sub-arraying to track multiple spacecraft simultaneously, increased reliability through the use of large numbers of identical array elements, very accurate real-time angular spacecraft tracking, and a dramatic reduction in cost per unit area. NASA missions in many disciplines, including planetary science, would benefit from this increased DSN capability. The science return from planned missions could be increased, and opportunities for less expensive or completely new kinds of missions would be created. The DSN array would also bean immensely valuable instrument for radio astronomy. Indeed, it would be by far the most sensitive radio telescope in the world. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Jones, D. L.↗

Development of a large array of Silicon Drift Detectors for high-rate synchrotron fluorescence spectroscopy

An array of small-area Silicon Drift Detectors (SDD), named Hera, has been developed at Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) in the past few years. Its primary application is high-rate spectroscopy at synchrotrons. Each SDD pixel is a 1 mm × 1 mm square to match the footprint of the original diode-based pixel detector called Maia, which was developed for the same application. The replacement of the diode with an SDD allows for better energy resolution at short shaping times and an increased stability of the detector. 32, 96, and 384-channel arrays were designed and fabricated and achieved a Full Width Half Maximum (FWHM) as low as 176 eV at 5.9 keV with peaking time of 1 μs at -13°C. The sensor design, simulation, fabrication, its readout system, and its spectroscopic performance are reported.

47 OTHER INSTRUMENTATION↗

Cost and reliability study for a large array of small reflector antennas for JPL/NASA Deep Space Network (DSN)

A study performed to estimate the cost of an array of small aperture reflector antennas to be used instead of or in conjunction with the current large reflector antennas of the JPL/NASA Deep Space Network (DSN) is described. The arrays are used for servicing present and future NASA missions that involve smaller spacecraft with limited power and smaller, lower-gain antennas. The advantages of the array configuration in terms of cost and reliability are discussed. A probabilistic determination of the reliability and availability of the array as a function of the number of array elements and the availability of individual array elements is made. The impact of additional marginal elements on the operational availability of the array is studied. Parametric cost and reliability plots are presented and directions for further investigation are outlined.

Jamnejad, Vahraz↗

Cost and Reliability Study for a Large Array of Small Reflector Antennas for JPL/NASA Deep Space Network (DSN)

A study is performed to estimate the cost of an array of small aperture reflector antennas to be used instead or in conjunction with the current large reflector antennas of the JPL/NASA Deep Space Network (DSN), for servicing present and future NASA missions which involve smaller spacecraft with limited power and smaller, lower gain antennas. The advantages of the array configuration in terms of cost and reliability are studied. A probabilistic determination of the reliability and availability of the array as a function of the number of array elements and the availability of individual array elements is made. The impact of additional marginal elements on the operational availability of the array is studied. Parametric cost and reliability plots are presented and directions for further investigation are outlined.

Resch, G.↗