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Results for “electromagnetic wave propagation”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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At least 397 records · Page 22
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2002

Ring Current Ion Coupling with Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron Waves

A new ring current global model has been developed for the first time that couples the system of two kinetic equations: one equation describes the ring current (RC) ion dynamic, and another equation describes wave evolution of electromagnetic ion cyclotron waves (EMIC). The coupled model is able to simulate, for the first time self-consistently calculated RC ion kinetic and evolution of EMIC waves that propagate along geomagnetic field lines and reflect from the ionosphere. Ionospheric properties affect the reflection index through the integral Pedersen and Hall coductivities. The structure and dynamics of the ring current proton precipitating flux regions, intensities of EMIC, global RC energy balance, and some other parameters will be studied in detail for the selected geomagnetic storms. The space whether aspects of RC modelling and comparison with the data will also be discussed.

Khazanov, George V.↗
DOE OSTI2023

A Systematic Approach for Estimating High-Altitude Electromagnetic Pulse Coupling onto Power Generation Facility Equipment

A systematic approach is presented to evaluate the effects of high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP) signals on the equipment located inside a power generation facility. The approach uses a combination of practical measurement and simulation efforts to characterize the radio wave propagation behavior and the device immunity profile. Of particular interest in this work was estimating the vulnerability level of equipment that is connected to long cables. As an example application, a detailed study was conducted for one common class of facility equipment, and its frequency- and time-domain HEMP coupling properties were investigated as a function of terminal loading condition and cable attachment configuration. Overall, the proposed method can be generalized and applied to other electronic components and systems found in the facility environment.

42 ENGINEERING↗
NASA NTRS1990

Force-free electromagnetic pulses in a laboratory plasma

A short, intense current pulse is drawn from an electrode immersed in a magnetized afterglow plasma. The induced magnetic field B(r,t) assumes the shape of a helical double vortex which propagates along B(0) through the uniform plasma as a whistler mode. The observations support a prediction of force-free (J x B + neE = 0) electromagnetic fields and solitary waves. Energy and helicity are approximately conserved.

Stenzel, R. L.↗
NASA NTRS1996

Excitation of Plasma Waves in Aurora by Electron Beams

In this paper, we study numerically the excitation of plasma waves by electron beams, in the auroral region above 2000 km of altitude. We have solved the fully kinetic dispersion relation, using numerical method and found the real frequency and the growth rate of the plasma wave modes. We have examined the instability properties of low-frequency waves such as the Electromagnetic Ion Cyclotron (EMIC) wave as well as Lower-Hybrid (LH) wave in the range of high-frequency. In all cases, the source of free energy are electron beams propagating parallel to the geomagnetic field. We present some features of the growth rate modes, when the cold plasma parameters are changed, such as background electrons and ions species (H(+) and O(+)) temperature, density or the electron beam density and/or drift velocity. These results can be used in a test-particle simulation code, to investigate the ion acceleration and their implication in the auroral acceleration processes, by wave-particle interaction.

daSilva, C. E.↗
NASA NTRS1980

Generation and propagation of an electromagnetic pulse in the Trigger experiment and its possible role in electron acceleration

Instruments onboard the Trigger payload detected a large-amplitude, low-frequency, electric field pulse which was observed with a time delay consistent only with an electromagnetic wave. A model for this perturbation is constructed, and the associated field-aligned current is calculated as a function of altitude. This experiment may simulate the acceleration mechanism which results in the formation of auroral arcs, and possibly even other events in cosmic plasmas.

Kelley, M. C.↗
DOE OSTI2022

One and Two Dimensional Quantum Lattice Algorithms for Maxwell Equations in Inhomogeneous Scalar Dielectric Media. II: Simulations

Long time quantum lattice algorithm (QLA) simulations are performed for the mul- tiple reflection-transmission of an initial electromagnetic pulse propagating normally to a boundary layer region joining two media of different refractive index. For these one dimensional (1D) sim- ulations, there is excellent agreement between x-, y- and z- representations, as well as very good agreement with nearly all the standard plane wave boundary condition results for reflection and transmission off a dielectric discontinuity. In the QLA simulation, no boundary conditions are im- posed at the continuous, but sharply increasing, dielectic boundary layers. Two dimensional (2D) QLA scattering simulations in the x-z plane are performed for an electromagnetic pulse interacting with a conical dielectric obstacle for the 8-16 qubit model.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
NASA NTRS2012

W/V-Band RF Propagation Experiment Design

The utilization of frequency spectrum for space-to-ground communications applications has generally progressed from the lowest available bands capable of supporting transmission through the atmosphere to the higher bands, which have required research and technological advancement to implement. As communications needs increase and the available spectrum in the microwave frequency bands (3 30 GHz) becomes congested globally, future systems will move into the millimeter wave (mm-wave) range (30 300 GHz). While current systems are operating in the Ka-band (20 30 GHz), systems planned for the coming decades will initiate operations in the Q-Band (33 50 GHz), V-Band (50 75 GHz) and W Band (75 110 GHz) of the spectrum. These bands offer extremely broadband capabilities (contiguous allocations of 500 MHz to 1GHz or more) and an uncluttered spectrum for a wide range of applications. NASA, DoD and commercial missions that can benefit from moving into the mm-wave bands include data relay and near-Earth data communications, unmanned aircraft communications, NASA science missions, and commercial broadcast/internet services, all able to be implemented via very small terminals. NASA Glenn Research Center has a long history of performing the inherently governmental function of opening new frequency spectrum by characterizing atmospheric effects on electromagnetic propagation and collaborating with the satellite communication industry to develop specific communications technologies for use by NASA and the nation. Along these lines, there are critical issues related to W/V-band propagation that need to be thoroughly understood before design of any operational system can commence. These issues arise primarily due to the limitations imposed on W/V-band signal propagation by the Earth s atmosphere, and to the fundamental lack of understanding of these effects with regards to proper system design and fade mitigation. In this paper, The GRC RF propagation team recommends measurements that are required to assure that the risk associated with the use of mm-wave is minimized. We develop first order beacon and transponder system payload requirements and beacon terminal requirements. We will suggest and discuss a possible hardware implementation for the space segment, as well for the ground segment. A discussion on a propagation measurement campaign for taking relevant statistical data is also included.

Acosta, Roberto J.↗
NASA NTRS1975

Electromagnetic hiss and relativistic electron losses in the inner zone

It is shown that ELF hiss is present in the inner radiation zone (L less than 2) during both storms and substorms. This presence is ascribed to propagation of waves into this region from a distributed source located at high altitude near the equatorial plasmapause. Two major effects allow hiss to reach the inner zone during storms and substorms: (1) the observed tendency for plasmaspheric hiss to be greatly intensified during the recovery phase as the outward-moving plasmapause encounters the electrons that have been freshly injected into the magnetosphere; (2) the displacement of the plasmapause, and the presumed source region, to low altitudes during high levels of magnetic activity.

Tsurutani, B. T.↗
NASA NTRS1980

The low-frequency continuum as observed in the solar wind from ISEE 3 - Thermal electrostatic noise

The low frequency continuum (LFC) noise between 30 and 200 kHz has been investigated from the ISEE 3 spacecraft in the solar wind by means of a radio astronomy experiment more sensitive than previously available. It is demonstrated that the LFC radiation observed in the solar wind is in the form of longitudinal plasma waves rather than transverse electromagnetic waves. The observed spectral characteristics are found to be a function of antenna length. In addition, both the absence of antenna spin modulation and the fact that these plasma waves do not propagate to large distances imply a local origin for the LFC.

Hoang, S.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Observations of ion cyclotron waves near synchronous orbit and on the ground

Ion cyclotron waves (ICWs) generated in the magnetosphere by the ion cyclotron instability of 10-100 keV protons are now known to be the origin of short-period (0.1-5 Hz) electromagnetic field oscillations observed by synchronous spacecraft and on the earth's surface. Observations of the various wave characteristics, including spectral and polarization properties, that lead to the identification of generation and propagation mechaniisms, and regions in the magnetosphere are described with reference to ATS-6, GEOS, and ground-based wave data and interpreted using cold plasma propagation theory. The presence of heavy ions (O/+/, He/+/) dramatically modifies ICW magnetospheric propagation characteristics giving rise to spectral slots and polarization reversals. These properties may be used in plasma diagnostics. Finally satellite-ground correlations and techniques for determining the magnetospheric source position of ICWs not seen at synchronous orbit but observed on the ground as structured Pc1 pulsations are considered.

Fraser, B. J.↗
NASA NTRS1997

Ponderomotive Force and Lower Hybrid Turbulence Effects in Space Plasmas Subjected to Large-Amplitude Low-Frequency Waves

In the auroral region, simultaneous occurrences of upward-flowing ions and field-aligned electrons have been observed by the Viking satellite. The occurrence is strongly correlated with large amplitude low frequency fluctuations of the electric field. Large-amplitude shear Alfven waves have also been observed by sounding rockets in the auroral ionosphere. When such LF waves are propagating in a plasma, a ponderomotive force and other types of waves are produced which may lead to significant effects on the plasma. This force is directed toward decreasing density, providing the electromagnetic lift of the background plasma and an increase of collisionless plasma expansion. We find that even for modest wave strengths, the influence on the outflowing oxygen ions can be dramatic, increasing the high-altitude density by orders of magnitude. It is also demonstrated that large-amplitude low-frequency waves (LFW) may generate lower hybrid waves (LHW) in the auroral zone. The excitation of LHW by a LF wave may lead to the appearance of an additional channel of energy transfer from, for example, Alfven or fast magnetosonic waves, to particles. This process then influences the formation of the plasma distribution function at the expense of acceleration in the tail of the distribution during the collapse of the LHW. The ion energization due to the LHW can be comparable with that produced by the ponderomotive force of the LFW. It is shown that the LH turbulence leads to equalization of the ponderomotive acceleration of the different ion species. The mechanism of LHW excitation due to the oxygen ion relative drift in a plasma subjected to low-frequency waves is used for analysis of Viking satellite data for events in the cusp/cleft region. It is found that, in some cases, such a mechanism leads to LHW energy densities and ion distribution functions close to those observed.

Khazanov, G. V.↗
DOE OSTI2020

Lower Hybrid Drift Waves During Guide Field Reconnection

Generation and propagation of lower hybrid drift wave (LHDW) near the electron diffusion region (EDR) during guide field reconnection at the magnetopause is studied with data from the Magnetospheric Multiscale mission and a theoretical model. Inside the current sheet, the electron beta (β e ) determines which type of LHDW is excited. Inside the EDR, where the electron beta is high (β e ~5), the long-wavelength electromagnetic LHDW is observed propagating obliquely to the local magnetic field. In contrast, the short-wavelength electrostatic LHDW, propagating nearly perpendicular to the magnetic field, is observed slightly away from the EDR, where β e is small (~0.6). These observed LHDW features are explained by a local theoretical model, including effects from the electron temperature anisotropy, finite electron heat flux, electrostatics, and parallel current. The short-wavelength LHDW is capable of generating significant drag force between electrons and ions.

79 ASTRONOMY AND ASTROPHYSICS↗
DOE OSTI2024

Patterned dielectric back contact design for GaAs thermophotovoltaic devices

-Patterned-dielectric back contact structures in optoelectronic devices are designed to boost the reflectance of light from the device back surface while retaining a low-resistance pathway for electrical conductance. Their reduced light absorption at near- and sub-bandgap photon energies leads to improved luminescence in light-emitting diodes, greater photon recycling, voltage, and efficiency in photovoltaic cells, and greater recuperation of unabsorbed sub-bandgap light in thermophotovoltaic (TPV) systems. However, diffraction from the patterned features can deflect incident light in propagation directions that lead to light trapping and parasitic absorption in the cell. Here, in this article, we use rigorous coupled-wave analysis (RCWA) to study three-dimensional diffractive scattering of electromagnetic waves by periodic metal point-contact gratings on 1.42-eV GaAs TPV cells, to analyze their effect on unwanted sub-bandgap absorption in order to achieve higher TPV system efficiency. Solutions of Maxwell's equations calculated using RCWA are compared to measured sub-bandgap reflectance in experimental GaAs TPV devices with varying metal point-contact diameters and spacing. Modeling and experiments indicate decreased total reflectance due to these diffractive effects for a small point contact diameter of 1 μm, and this effect is much stronger at higher contact coverage fractions.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗
DOE OSTI2023

Resonant interactions involving local vibrational modes in crystals

When an impurity with a light mass is inserted into a crystal, it can undergo a high-frequency oscillation referred to as a local vibrational mode (LVM). A Fermi resonance may occur between the LVM and lower-frequency modes of the defect. The LVM may also interact with phonons or the electromagnetic field. Understanding these interactions can help model and control diffusion, defect reactions, and thermal conductivity. LVMs have been probed in semiconductors using pressure and alloying as experimental parameters, resulting in anticrossing between localized and extended vibrational modes. Furthermore, these types of vibrational interactions could play an important role in the stability and thermal properties of organic–inorganic hybrid semiconductors. The coupling between an LVM and electromagnetic wave yields an “LVM polariton,” an excitation that has significant vibrational and electric-field amplitudes.

71 CLASSICAL AND QUANTUM MECHANICS, GENERAL PHYSIC↗
NASA NTRS1990

On the theory of CIV

The critical ionization velocity (CIV) phenomenon involves the transfer of energy from neutrals moving relative to a plasma to electrons. Three mechanisms are discussed and illustrated with numerical simulations. If the elastic electron neutral collision frequency is large (comparable to the electron cyclotron frequency) the electrons can gain enough energy from the neutrals to ionize them. Newly created ions form beams in the plasma which are unstable to lower hybrid waves propagating obliquely to the magnetic field. These waves have an electric field component parallel to the background magnetic field which can accelerate electrons. However, the efficiency of this heating is significantly reduced by electromagnetic effects which occur when the relative velocity exceeds the Alfven speed or when the plasma beta is large. A third mechanism involves the E x B drift of electrons in the secondary electric field due to charge separation at the front of a neutral gas cloud. This E field is opposite to the neutral gas velocity and can be much larger than the polarization field. The electron drift excites the modified two-stream instability which causes rapid electron heating and thus ionization in the front.

Goertz, C. K.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Observation of intense wave bursts at very low altitudes within the Venus nightside ionosphere

Intense ELF (100 Hz) bursts were detected by the Pioneer Venus (PV) Orbiter plasma wave instrument during the final operations of the spacecraft prior to atmospheric entry. These bursts were detected at approx. 130 km altitude around 0400 local time. The wave activity lasted for several tens of seconds. Furthermore the bursts were not symmetric about periapsis, unlike instrument noise caused by neutral impacts on the spacecraft. The bursts had a vertical attenuation scale height of the order 1 km, consistent with that expected for whistler-mode waves propagating through a collisional ionosphere. Since the decay of the signals appears to be due to attenuation, the source must persist for several tens of seconds. The wave bursts could therefore be the signature of electromagnetic radiation entering the bottomside ionosphere from several distant sources, as would be expected if lightning were a relatively persistent phenomenon within the Venus atmosphere.

Strangeway, R. J.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Observation of Intense Wave Bursts at Very Low Altitudes Within the Venus Nightside Ionosphere

Intense ELF (100 Hz) bursts were detected by the Pioneer Venus Orbiter plasma wave instrument during the final operations of the spacecraft prior to atmospheric entry. These bursts were detected at approx. 130 km altitude around 0400 local time. The wave activity lasted for several tens of seconds. Furthermore the bursts were not symmetric about periapsis, unlike instrument noise caused by neutral impacts on the spacecraft. The bursts had a vertical attenuation scale height of the order 1 km, consistent with that expected for whistler-mode waves propagating through a collisional ionosphere. Since the decay of the signals appears to be due to attenuation, the source must persist for several tens of seconds. The wave bursts could therefore be the signature of electromagnetic radiation entering the bottomside ionosphere from several distant sources, as would be expected if lightning were a relatively persistent phenomenon within the Venus atmosphere.

Strangeway, R. J.↗
NASA NTRS2008

Investigation of Fiber Waviness in a Thick Glass Composite Beam Using THz NDE

Fiber waviness in laminated composite material is introduced during manufacture because of uneven curing, resin shrinkage, or ply buckling caused by bending the composite lay-up into its final shape prior to curing. The resulting waviness has a detrimental effect on mechanical properties, therefore this condition is important to detect and characterize. Ultrasonic characterization methods are difficult to interpret because elastic wave propagation is highly dependent on ply orientation and material stresses. By comparison, the pulsed terahertz response of the composite is shown to provide clear indications of the fiber waviness. Pulsed Terahertz NDE is an electromagnetic inspection method that operates in the frequency range between 300 GHz and 3 THz. Its propagation is influenced by refractive index variations and interfaces. This work applies pulsed Terahertz NDE to the inspection of a thick composite beam with fiber waviness. The sample is a laminated glass composite material approximately 15mm thick with a 90-degree bend. Terahertz response from the planar section, away from the bend, is indicative of a homogeneous material with no major reflections from internal plies, while the multiple reflections at the bend area correspond to the fiber waviness. Results of these measurements are presented for the planar and bend areas.

Anastasi, Robert F.↗