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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 433 records · Page 24

Automated control and data acquisition for a tunable diode laser heterodyne spectrometer

This paper describes the hardware and software design, development, and implementation of the control and data electronics of a laser heterodyne spectrometer instrument being built at NASA Langley Research Center for a technology demonstration. Functional partitioning, applied at all levels of hardware and software, has been found to provide expedient design, development, and testing of the instrument. The instrument is composed of distributed microprocessor-based units. A master/slave protocol is presented which can be simulated by a terminal for unit checkout. All but one of the units are implemented using a set of core boards, plus unique boards where necessary. This design has led to reduced hardware development, reduced parts inventory, and replication of software modules, while providing the flexibility needed for a development instrument. The development tools and documentation guidelines are discussed.

Shull, T. S.↗

Data Management Working Group report

The current flight qualification program lags technology insertion by 6 to 10 years. The objective is to develop an integrated software engineering and development environment assisted by an expert system technology. An operating system needs to be developed which is portable to the on-board computers of the year 2000. The use of ADA verses a High-Order Language; fault tolerance; fiber optics networks; communication protocols; and security are also examined and outlined.

Filardo, Edward J.↗

Smart Medical Systems with Application to Nutrition and Fitness in Space

Smart medical systems are being developed to allow medical treatments to address alterations in chemical and physiological status in real time. In a smart medical system sensor arrays assess subject status, which are interpreted by computer processors which analyze multiple inputs and recommend treatment interventions. The response of the subject to the treatment is again assessed by the sensor arrays, closing the loop. An early form of "smart medicine" has been practiced in space to assess nutrition. Nutrient levels are assessed with food frequency questionnaires, which are interpreted by flight surgeons to recommend in-flight alterations in diet. In the future, sensor arrays will directly probe body chemistry. Near infrared spectroscopy can be used to noninvasively measure several blood and tissue parameters which are important in the assessment of nutrition and fitness. In particular, this technology can be used to measure blood hematocrit and interstitial fluid pH. The noninvasive measurement of interstitial pH is discussed as a surrogate for blood lactate measurement for the development and real-time assessment of exercise protocols in space. Earth-based application of these sensors are also described.

Soller, Babs R.↗

Use of Legacy Maritime Protocols Increases Exploitability of Virtual Aids to Navigation

With increased reliance on Virtual Aid(s) to Navigation (VAtoN) - also known as electronic Aid(s) to Navigation (eAtoN), or virtual buoys - a cyber event is likely to cause disruption to international maritime shipping. VAtoN has no physical hardware for visual reference and displays only on a vessel’s Electronic Chart Display Information System (ECDIS) and Automatic Radar Plotting Aid (ARPA); therefore, mariners must rely on the accuracy of the information provided. As VAtoN uses the National Maritime Electronics Association (NMEA) 0183 protocol for both Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Automatic Identification System (AIS), an insecure protocol that has been proven susceptible to spoofing, denial, and manipulation, the likelihood of a cyber-related event increases substantially.

45 MILITARY TECHNOLOGY, WEAPONRY, AND NATIONAL DEF↗

MSFC institutional area network and ATM technology

The New Institutional Area Network (NEWIAN) at Marshall supports over 5000 end users with access to 26 file servers providing work presentation services. It is comprised of some 150 Ethernet LAN's interconnected by bridges/routers which are in turn connected to servers over two dual FDDI rings. The network supports various higher level protocols such as IP, IPX, AppleTalk (AT), and DECNet. At present IPX and AT protocols packets are routed, and IP protocol packets are bridged; however, work is in progress to route all IP packets. The impact of routing IP packets on network operation is examined. Broadband Integrated Services Data Network (BISDN), presently at various stages of development, is intended to provide voice, video, and data transfer services over a single network. BISDN will use asynchronous transfer mode (ATM) as a data transfer technique which provides for transmission, multiplexing, switching, and relaying of small size data units called cells. Limited ATM Wide Area Network (WAN) services are offered by Wiltel, AT&T, Sprint, and others. NASA is testing a pilot ATM WAN with a view to provide Program Support Communication Network services using ATM. ATM supports wide range of data rates and quality of service requirements. It is expected that ATM switches will penetrate campus networks as well. However, presently products in these areas are at various stages of development and standards are not yet complete. We examine development of ATM to help assess its role in the evolution of NEWIAN.

Amin, Ashok T.↗

Witnessing Spin-Orbital Entanglement Using Resonant Inelastic X-Ray Scattering

Entanglement plays a central role in quantum technologies, yet its characterization and control in materials remain challenging. Recent developments in spectrum-based entanglement witnesses have enabled new strategies for quantifying many-body entanglement in macroscopic materials. Here, in this work, we develop a protocol for detecting spin-orbital entanglement using experiment-accessible resonant inelastic x-ray scattering. Central to our approach is the construction of a Hermitian generator from measurable spectra, which allows us to compute the quantum Fisher information (QFI) available in spin-orbital systems. The resulting QFI provides upper bounds for 𝑘-producible states and thus serves as a robust witness of spin-orbital entanglement. To account for realistic experimental limitations, we further extend our framework to include relaxed QFI bounds applicable to measurements lacking full polarization resolution.

entanglement detection↗

Internet Technologies for Space-based Communications: State of the Art and Challenges

The Internet is rapidly changing the ways we communicate information around the globe today. The desire to provide Internet-based services to anyone, anywhere, anytime has brought satellite communications to the forefront to become an integral part of the Internet. In spite of the distances involved, satellite links are proving to be capable of providing Internet services based on Internet protocol (TCP/IP) stack. This development has led to the question particularly at NASA; can satellites and other space platforms become an Internet-node in space? This will allow the direct transfer of information directly from space to the users on Earth and even be able to control the spacecraft and its instruments. NASA even wants to extend the near earth space Internet to deep space applications where scientists and the public here on Earth may view space exploration in real time via the Internet. NASA's future solar system exploration will involve intensive in situ investigations of planets, moons, asteroids, and comets. While past missions typically involved a single fly-by or orbiting science spacecraft, future missions will begin to use fleets of small, highly intelligent robotic vehicles to carry out collaborative investigations. The resulting multi-spacecraft topologies will effectively create a wide area network spanning the solar system. However, this will require significant development in Internet technologies for space use. This paper provides the status'of the Internet for near earth applications and the potential extension of the Internet for use in deep space planetary exploration. The paper will discuss the overall challenges of implementing the space Internet and how the space Internet will integrate into the complex terrestrial systems those forms the Internet of today in a hybrid set of networks. Internet. We envision extending to the deep space environment such Internet concepts as a well-designed layered architecture. This effort will require an ability to develop and infuse new physical layer technology to increase network bandwidth at very low-bit error rates. In addition, we identify network technologies such as routers and switches needed to maintain standard application layer interfaces, while providing low-cost, efficient, modular networking solutions. We will describe the overall architectural approach to extending the concept of the Internet to space and highlight the important technological challenges and initiatives that will make it a reality.

Bhasin, K.↗

The role of HiPPI switches in mass storage systems: A five year prospective

New standards are evolving which provide the foundation for multi-gigabit per second data communication structures. The lowest layer protocols are so generalized that they encourage a wide range of application. Specifically, the ANSI High Performance Parallel Interface (HiPPI) is being applied to computer peripheral attachment as well as general data communication networks. The HiPPI Standards suite and technology products which incorporate the standards are introduced. The use of simple HiPPI crosspoint switches to build potentially complex extended 'fabrics' is discussed in detail. Several near term applications of the HiPPI technology are briefly described with additional attention to storage systems. Finally, some related standards are mentioned which may further expand the concepts above.

Gilbert, T. A.↗

Processing of Bulk YBa2Cu3O(7-x) High Temperature Superconductor Materials for Gravity Modification Experiments and Performance Under AC Levitation

We have previously reported results using a high precision gravimeter to probe local gravity changes in the neighborhood of bulk-processed high temperature superconductor disks. Others have indicated that large annular disks (on the order of 25cm diameter) and AC levitation fields play an essential role in their observed experiments. We report experiments in processing such large bulk superconductors. Successful results depend on material mechanical characteristics, and pressure and heat treat protocols. Annular disks having rough dimensions of 30cm O.D., 7cm I.D. and 1 cm thickness have been routinely fabricated and tested under AC levitation fields ranging from 45 to 300OHz. Implications for space transportation initiatives and power storage flywheel technology will be discussed.

Koczor, Ronald↗

Vehicle Integrated Prognostic Reasoner (VIPR) 2010 Annual Final Report

Honeywell's Central Maintenance Computer Function (CMCF) and Aircraft Condition Monitoring Function (ACMF) represent the state-of-the art in integrated vehicle health management (IVHM). Underlying these technologies is a fault propagation modeling system that provides nose-to-tail coverage and root cause diagnostics. The Vehicle Integrated Prognostic Reasoner (VIPR) extends this technology to interpret evidence generated by advanced diagnostic and prognostic monitors provided by component suppliers to detect, isolate, and predict adverse events that affect flight safety. This report describes year one work that included defining the architecture and communication protocols and establishing the user requirements for such a system. Based on these and a set of ConOps scenarios, we designed and implemented a demonstration of communication pathways and associated three-tiered health management architecture. A series of scripted scenarios showed how VIPR would detect adverse events before they escalate as safety incidents through a combination of advanced reasoning and additional aircraft data collected from an aircraft condition monitoring system. Demonstrating VIPR capability for cases recorded in the ASIAS database and cross linking them with historical aircraft data is planned for year two.

Hadden, George D.↗

Use of IPsec by Manned Space Missions

NASA's Constellation Program is developing its next generation manned space systems for missions to the International Space Station (ISS) and the Moon. The Program is embarking on a path towards standards based Internet Protocol (IP) networking for space systems communication. The IP based communications will be paired with industry standard security mechanisms such as Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) to ensure the integrity of information exchanges and prevent unauthorized release of sensitive information in-transit. IPsec has been tested in simulations on the ground and on at least one Earth orbiting satellite, but the technology is still unproven in manned space mission situations and significant obstacles remain.

Pajevski, Michael J.↗

(abstract) Satellite-Enhanced Personal Communications Experiments

As an initial step in exploring the opportunities afforded by the merger of satellite-based and land-based networks, Bellcore and JPL conducted several experiments utilizing NASA's Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) and JPL's ACTS Mobile Terminal (AMT). Experimental goals fell into three categories: a) demonstrate personal communication applications, b) demonstrate interoperability among multiple wireless networks and the Public Switched Telecommunications Network (PSTN), and c) evaluate new protocol mechanisms for data communications using wireless links. We describe the performance of Point-of-Sale, e-mail, FAX, and call control applications, where the communication path passed through up to four networks: a wireless packet data network, the Satellite network, the PSTN, and a wireless cellular network. One important element of satellite-terrestrial interoperability is the efficiency of data communications protocols. Most protocols in use today (e.g., TCP/IP) have been optimized for wireline channels; their use over wireless networks presents significant new challenges. The characteristics of wireless channels -- increased error, longer packet delay, and limited bandwidth -- affect the design of the protocol. We describe experimental results for differing protocol mechanisms and parameters, such as acknowledgment schemes and packet sizes, that demonstrate the types of protocol needed for efficient use of wireless satellite-terrestrial networks.

personal↗

EXPORTS Measurements and Protocols for the NE Pacific Campaign

EXport Processes in the Ocean from Remote Sensing (EXPORTS) is a large-scale NASA-led and NSF co-funded field campaign that will provide critical information for quantifying the export and fate of upper ocean net primary production (NPP) using satellite information and state of the art technology.

Ivona Cetinić↗

Alternate Communications Spectrum Study (ACSS) for Aviation Data Links (ADL)

The aim of the work was to identify the key factors involved in the use of alternate spectrum in various bands for a future integrated CNS data link. The study focused on systems and spectral bands that can deliver VDL-or-higher data rates in a two-way communication setting (including air-ground, ground-air, and air-air modes of operation), with multiple platforms (aircraft) operating in the same local environment. We begin with a review of the initial task list, and the final task list. The final task list contained a focus upon spectral availability and related systems that could be affected by the deployment of a new aviation data link (ADL) system. Most of this addresses the lower few layers of the communications protocol stack. A brief review of current related efforts in the aeronautical community is then provided, in which we describe several systems and programs of interest. Participation in some of these efforts is recommended. We also delineate several of the advantages and disadvantages of these system/efforts, in view of anticipated requirements of a new ADL. Desired attributes of a new ADL system are then discussed, and a connection with existing systems is made. The need to consider a wider set of alternative systems and technologies is described, and the beneficial aspects of a particular transmission technique- spread spectrum-are discussed. We then discuss in more detail several potential spectral regions, in terms of propagation conditions, available technology, spectrum availability, and waveform selection. Some comments on the need for standardization are also provided. We note that none of the existing systems described will likely meet the full range of desired features of a new ADL, but that several systems and spectral regions offer promise in terms of one or more characteristics. A system design and analysis approach is then provided. In this, we again focus on the lower few layers of the protocol stack, and aim to capture the main features and parameters that must be selected in the design. Two appendices show example versions and initial results of the first few technical steps in the design approach. Some conclusions are then drawn, and in the final section, recommendations are provided, the most important of which are repeated here: 1. Continue the effort begun here. As detailed in this report, we have only uncovered much of the work that needs to be done in order to provide the foundation for a flexible, high- performance, robust ADL. 2. Seize the opportunity to begin testing in the MLS band. The wide bandwidths and low level of usage of this band make it an ideal one for proof-of-concept type testing. Other (non- aeronautical) organizations are likely to make claims on the band if it is not being used. The primary conclusion is that there is a real and pressing need for a new aviation data link. vi

Matolak, David W.↗

PACT Center: Perovskite PV Accelerator for Commercializing Technologies (Final Technical Report)

The Perovskite PV Accelerator for Commercializing Technologies (PACT) center was established in July 2021 as a national resource to accelerate the commercialization of perovskite photovoltaic (PV) technology in the United States. Since its inception, PACT has been led by Sandia National Laboratories (Sandia) in partnership with the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), formerly known as NREL. From FY20-FY23, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), CFV Labs, Black & Veatch (B&V), and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) were part of the project team. LANL brought expertise in perovskite PV device designs and processing, CFV Labs (now GroundWork Renewables) provided initial indoor and outdoor measurement hardware technology, B&V led the initial effort on perovskite PV bankability, and EPRI worked on reviewing testing standards, identifying commercialization gaps, and helping to run PACT’s Industry Advisory Board, a group including representatives from commercial testing labs, independent engineering firms, insurance companies, state regulators, and electric utilities. To source perovskite PV module samples, PACT contracted with the University of North Carolina (UNC), the University of Toledo, the University of Washington, and SLAC/Stanford University to provide a steady stream of research-grade perovskite mini modules, enabling protocol development in advance of commercial module availability. The project period ran from July 1, 2021, through December 31, 2025, including a No Cost Extension. Starting in FY25, the project was continued as a Core Capability in the Lab Call portfolio and continues at a reduced budget with only Sandia and NLR as funded recipients. Notably, starting in FY25 PACT expanded its scope beyond MHP modules to accept all emerging PV mini module technologies for testing, including organic PV (OPV) and all-thin-film tandems, with the aim of supporting commercialization across the broader emerging PV ecosystem. With this change in scope the program was renamed the PV Accelerator for Commercializing Technologies, dropping perovskite from the name.

14 SOLAR ENERGY↗

Robust quantification of the diamond nitrogen-vacancy center charge state via photoluminescence spectroscopy

Nitrogen vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are at the heart of many emerging quantum technologies, all of which require control over the NV charge state. Hence, methods for quantification of the relative photoluminescence intensities of the NV 0 and NV − charge states, i.e., a charge state ratio, are vital. Several approaches to quantify NV charge state ratios have been reported but are either limited to bulk-like NV diamond samples or yield qualitative results. We propose an NV charge state quantification protocol based on the determination of sample- and experimental setup-specific NV 0 and NV − reference spectra. The approach employs blue (400–470 nm) and green (480–570 nm) excitation to infer pure NV 0 and NV − spectra, which are then used to quantify NV charge state ratios in subsequent experiments via least squares fitting. We test our dual excitation protocol (DEP) for a bulk diamond NV sample and 20 and 100 nm nanodiamond particles and compare results with those obtained via other commonly used techniques such as zero-phonon line fitting and non-negative matrix factorization. We find that DEP can be employed across different samples and experimental setups and yields consistent and quantitative results for NV charge state ratios that are in agreement with our understanding of NV photophysics. By providing robust NV charge state quantification across sample types and measurement platforms, DEP will support the development of NV-based quantum technologies.

Color center laser spectroscopy↗

Shuttle Payload Ground Command and Control: An Experiment Implementation Combustion Module-2 Software Development, STS-107

This presentation covers the design of a command and control architecture developed by the author for the Combustion Module-2 microgravity experiment, which flew aboard the STS-107 Shuttle mission, The design was implemented to satisfy a hybrid network that utilized TCP/IP for both the onboard segment and ground segment, with an intermediary unreliable transport for the space to ground segment. With the infusion of Internet networking technologies into Space Shuttle, Space Station, and spacecraft avionics systems, comes the need for robust methodologies for ground command and control. Considerations of high bit error links, and unreliable transport over intermittent links must be considered in such systems. Internet protocols applied to these systems, coupled with the appropriate application layer protections, can provide adequate communication architectures for command and control. However, there are inherent limitations and additional complexities added by the use of Internet protocols that must be considered during the design. This presentation will discuss the rationale for the: framework and protocol algorithms developed by the author. A summary of design considerations, implantation issues, and learned lessons will be will be presented. A summary of mission results using this communications architecture will be presented. Additionally, areas of further needed investigation will be identified.

Carek, David Andrew↗