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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 487 records · Page 27

Hot ion plasma heating experiments in SUMMA

A new superconducting magnetic mirror apparatus (SUMMA) is described using photographs, diagrams, characteristics graphs, and block diagrams. The apparatus consists of a magnet facility, a plasma test section, the electrode assembly, a charge-exchange neutral particle analyzer, and apparatus for emission spectroscopy. Initial results of hot ion plasma heating experiments conducted in this facility are reported. The purpose of these experiments was twofold: (1) to make a reliable electrode assembly for steady-state operation in the new SUMMA magnetic field configuration and test-section geometry; and (2) to see how ion heating scales as the midplane magnetic field is varied up to 3.5 tesla.

Reinmann, J. J.↗

Unusual emission of iron nuclei from the sun

Sustained emission of low energy solar particles with a composition richer in iron than oxygen is observed in the time period 1974 May 7 to 17. Between 0.7 and 4 MeV/nucleon the relative abundances of C:O:Fe are 0.24:1:1.35. It was suggested that these observations provide indication for effects of heavy ion enrichment in the lower corona of the sun.

Gloeckler, G.↗

Radiative transfer in spherical circumstellar dust envelopes. II - Is the infrared continuum of eta Carinae produced by thermal dust emission

The radiative transfer techniques of Huang have been further extended in an attempt to construct a specific thermal dust-emission model of eta Carinae which fits the observations of both the spectral and the spatial distribution of the infrared radiation. The model which best fits the observations requires infrared emissivities considerably higher than those of normal-size nonsilicate grains. Evidence is presented that the high infrared emissivities are caused by large particles rather than a heavy concentration of infrared-active silicates. The possibility that synchrotron radiation is responsible for some of the infrared continuum is discussed.

Apruzese, J. P.↗

Atmospheric Physics

The possibility of extending the atmospheric observation from space is discussed. Observations of the earth's limb from GEO at microwave frequencies, global mapping of ozone, charged particle precipitation, photochemical reactions, spectral emissions from the atmosphere, microwave measurements, and radio probing of the atmosphere and ionosphere, which were not feasible prior to the availability of the shuttle because of the antenna limitations, may be readily carried out from the space stations.

Source record↗

Trace elemental characteristics of aerosols emitted from municipal incinerators

As part of a continuing investigation of high temperature combustion aerosols, elemental composition of size differentiated aerosols emitted from a local municipal incinerator was studied. Aerosols were aerodynamically separated into eight diameter groups ranging from 0.43 mm to 20 mm, collected, and analyzed by charged particle induced X-ray emission technique. On line data collection and reduction codes generated aerial densities for elements from Na to U with sensitivities in the ng/cu m range for most elements. From the total weights of aerosols collected per stage, their size distribution was determined to be bimodal, with one group centered at a diameter of 0.54 mm and the other at a diameter of 5.6 mm. Measured elemental concentrations in various size ranges indicate that K and S show a strong tendency to concentrate on aerosol surfaces. A weaker trend for surface preference was also observed for Mn and Ni, but other elements show no such trend.

Singh, J. J.↗

Characterization of electrical discharges on Teflon dielectrics used as spacecraft thermal control

The dual effects of system degradation and reduced life of synchronous-orbit satellites as a result of differential spacecraft charging underscore the need for a clearer understanding of the prevailing electrical discharge phenomena. In a laboratory simulation, the electrical discharge current, surface voltage, emitted particle fluxes, and photo-emission associated with discharge events on electron beam irradiated silver-backed Teflon samples were measured. Sample surface damage was examined with optical and electron beam microscopes. The results are suggestive of a model in which the entire sample surface is discharged by lateral sub-surface currents flowing from a charge deposition layer through a localized discharge channel to the back surface of the sample. The associated return current pulse appears to have a duration which may be a signature by which different discharge processes may be characterized.

Yadlowsky, E. J.↗

Measurement techniques for trace metals in coal-plant effluents: A brief review

The strong features and limitations of techniques for determining trace elements in aerosols emitted from coal plants are discussed. Techniques reviewed include atomic absorption spectroscopy, charged particle scattering and activation, instrumental neutron activation analysis, gas/liquid chromatography, gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric methods, X-ray fluorescence, and charged-particle-induced X-ray emission. The latter two methods are emphasized. They provide simultaneous, sensitive multielement analyses and lend themselves readily to depth profiling. It is recommended that whenever feasible, two or more complementary techniques should be used for analyzing environmental samples.

Singh, J. J.↗

Gravitational radiation and the ultimate speed in Rosen's bimetric theory of gravity

In Rosen's bimetric theory of gravity the (local) speed of gravitational radiation is determined by the combined effects of cosmological boundary values and nearby concentrations of matter. It is possible for the speed of gravitational radiation to be less than the speed of light. It is here shown that the emission of gravitational radiation prevents particles of nonzero rest mass from exceeding the speed of gravitational radiation. Observations of relativistic particles place limits on the speed of gravitational radiation and the cosmological boundary values today, and observations of synchroton radiation from compact radio sources place limits on the cosmological boundary values in the past.

Caves, C. M.↗

Potentials of surfaces in space

The subject of surface potentials on natural and artificial bodies in space is reviewed with particular emphasis on recent developments. Following a brief survey of work done up to the early 1970s on the charging of astrophysical objects in interstellar and interplanetary space and spacecraft charging, the various charging mechanisms in space are examined, including the collection of plasma particles, photoemission, and secondary electron emission by electron impact and ion impact, and the effects on charging of nonisotropic plasmas, wakes, and environmental magnetic and electric fields are considered. The concept of equilibrium potential is discussed, along with differential charging, potential barriers and discharge processes. The measurement of spacecraft potentials is then considered, and recent work on spacecraft potential modification and control by active and passive means is presented. Finally, astrophysical applications where charging effects may be important are discussed, and areas for further work are indicated.

Whipple, E. C.↗

Elemental composition of arctic particulate matter

Measurements were made of the elemental composition of particulate matter collected in flights in the Arctic in spring 1983 as part of the Arctic Gas and Aerosol Sampling Program (AGASP). Ten samples of size-selected particles were analyzed by four nondestructive techniques at Davis. Concentrations were determined for H, C, N, and O by Forward Alpha Scattering Techniques (FAST) and for elements heavier than fluorine by Particle Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE). Total mass was measured gravimetrically, and optical absorption was measured using the Laser Integrating Plate Method (LIPM). Results of the analyses show dramatic differences in concentrations and elemental ratios from the Alaskan Arctic to the Norwegian Arctic, with indications of wood smoke and sulfuric acid in the arctic atmosphere.

Cahill, T. A.↗

Surface analysis of space telescope material specimens

Qualitative and quantitative data on Space Telescope materials which were exposed to low Earth orbital atomic oxygen in a controlled experiment during the 41-G (STS-17) mission were obtained utilizing the experimental techniques of Rutherford backscattering (RBS), particle induced X-ray emission (PIXE), and ellipsometry (ELL). The techniques employed were chosen with a view towards appropriateness for the sample in question, after consultation with NASA scientific personnel who provided the material specimens. A group of eight samples and their controls selected by NASA scientists were measured before and after flight. Information reported herein include specimen surface characterization by ellipsometry techniques, a determination of the thickness of the evaporated metal specimens by RBS, and a determination of trace impurity species present on and within the surface by PIXE.

Fromhold, A. T.↗

Light, Strong Insulating Tiles

Improved lightweight insulating silica/aluminum borosilicate/silicon carbide tiles combine increased tensile strength with low thermal conductivity. Changes in composition substantially improve heat-insulating properties of silica-based refractory tile. Silicon carbide particles act as high-emissivity radiation scatterers in tile material.

Cordia, E.↗

Remote express analysis of ground-layer aerosol based on laser-induced spark spectra

The creation of high-power pulsed CO2 and Nd-glass lasers enables the realization of the method for remote spectro-chemical analysis of atmospheric aerosols based on excitation of the emission spectrum of the aerosol particle atoms. A description of construction and characteristics of a spectrochemical lidar based on both Nd-glass and CO2 lasers is presented.

Zuev, V. E.↗

Grains charges in interstellar clouds

The charge of cosmic grains could play an important role in many astrophysical phenomena. It probably has an influence on the coagulation of grains and more generally on grain-grain collisions, and on interaction between charged particles and grains which could lead to the formation of large grains or large molecules. The electrostatic charge of grains depends mainly on the nature of constitutive material of the grain and on the physical properties of its environment: it results from a delicate balance between the plasma particle collection and the photoelectron emission, both of them depending on each other. The charge of the grain is obtained in two steps: (1) using the numerical model the characteristics of the environment of the grain are computed; (2) the charge of a grain which is embedded in this environment is determined. The profile of the equilibrium charge of some typical grains through different types of interstellar clouds is obtained as a function of the depth of the cloud. It is shown that the grain charge can reach high values not only in hot diffuse clouds, but also in clouds with higher densities. The results are very sensitive to the mean UV interstellar radiation field. Three parameters appear to be essential but with different levels of sensitivity of the charge: the gas density, the temperature, and the total thickness of the cloud.

Bel, N.↗

Neutron starquake model for gamma-ray bursts

A neutron starquake model for gamma ray bursts is presented and critically analyzed. It is suggested that a slowly accreting neutron star may develop density inversions deep in its crust. These unstable layers, may be subject to elastic Rayleigh-Taylor instability which can liberate sufficient gravitational and perhaps also nuclear energy to account for individual bursts. Energy can be transported to the surface by shear waves and slowly transmitted into the magnetosphere as relativistic Alfven waves. Particle acceleration and gamma ray emission from the outer magnetosphere should ensue. Some observational implications are mentioned.

Blandford, R. D.↗

Particles and fields measurements at Neptune with Voyager 2

The first results of measurements performed on the Voyager 2 spacecraft with the Neptune system on August 24-28, 1989 are summarized. These include measurements of the magnetic field, plasma, energetic and high energy particles, plasma waves and radio emissions, and additional information relating to UV emissions. The planetary magnetic field outside about 4 R(N) may be described by an offset, tilted, dipole of moment 0.133 Gauss-R(N) exp 3; inside that distance the field is dominated by higher order terms. Plasma densities are found to be generally low (about 5 exp -3/cu cm), except at magnetic equatorial crossings when densities are up to about 1/cu cm. A variety of plasma wave emissions were seen, including chorus, hiss, electroncyclotron waves, and upper hybrid resonance in the inner magnetosphere. The measured flux of soft electrons and ions over the polar region of about 2 x 10 exp -3 erg/sq cm sec results in an estimated power input of about 3 x 10 exp 7 W, which is substantially less than that at other planets.

Krimigis, S. M.↗

CERES Single Scanner Satellite Footprint, TOA, Surface Fluxes and Clouds (SSF) data in HDF (CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Edition2A)

The Single Scanner Footprint TOA/Surface Fluxes and Clouds (SSF) product contains one hour of instantaneous Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) data for a single scanner instrument. The SSF combines instantaneous CERES data with scene information from a higher-resolution imager such as Visible/Infrared Scanner (VIRS) on TRMM or Moderate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on Terra and Aqua. Scene identification and cloud properties are defined at the higher imager resolution and these data are averaged over the larger CERES footprint. For each CERES footprint, the SSF contains the number of cloud layers and for each layer the cloud amount, height, temperature, pressure, optical depth, emissivity, ice and liquid water path, and water particle size. The SSF also contains the CERES filtered radiances for the total, shortwave (SW), and window (WN) channels and the unfiltered SW, longwave (LW), and WN radiances. The SW, LW, and WN radiances at spacecraft altitude are converted to Top-of-the-Atmosphere (TOA) fluxes based on the imager defined scene. These TOA fluxes are used to estimate surface fluxes. Only footprints with adequate imager coverage are included on CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Subset_Edition1the SSF which is much less than the full set of footprints on the CERES ES-8 product. The following CERES SSF data sets are currently available: CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Edition1 CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Subset_Edition1 CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Edition2A CER_SSF_TRMM-SIM-VIRS_Edition2_VIRSonly CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Edition2A-TransOps CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Edition2B-TransOps CER_SSF_TRMM-PFM-VIRS_Edition2B CER_SSF_Terra-FM1-MODIS_Edition1A CER_SSF_Terra-FM1-MODIS_Edition1A CER_SSF_Terra-FM1-MODIS_Edition2A CER_SSF_Terra-FM2-MODIS_Edition2A CER_SSF_Terra-FM1-MODIS_Edition2B CER_SSF_Terra-FM2-MODIS_Edition2B CER_SSF_Aqua-FM4-MODIS_Beta1 CER_SSF_Aqua-FM3-MODIS_Beta2 CER_SSF_Aqua-FM4-MODIS_Beta2. [Location=GLOBAL] [Temporal_Coverage: Start_Date=1998-01-01; Stop_Date=2000-03-31] [Spatial_Coverage: Southernmost_Latitude=-90; Northernmost_Latitude=90; Westernmost_Longitude=-180; Easternmost_Longitude=180] [Data_Resolution: Temporal_Resolution=1 hour; Temporal_Resolution_Range=Hourly - < Daily].

ICE WATER PATH↗

Sensor-Web Operations Explorer

Understanding the atmospheric state and its impact on air quality requires observations of trace gases, aerosols, clouds, and physical parameters across temporal and spatial scales that range from minutes to days and from meters to more than 10,000 kilometers. Observations include continuous local monitoring for particle formation; field campaigns for emissions, local transport, and chemistry; and periodic global measurements for continental transport and chemistry. Understanding includes global data assimilation framework capable of hierarchical coupling, dynamic integration of chemical data and atmospheric models, and feedback loops between models and observations. The objective of the sensor-web system is to observe trace gases, aerosols, clouds, and physical parameters, an integrated observation infrastructure composed of space-borne, air-borne, and in-situ sensors will be simulated based on their measurement physics properties. The objective of the sensor-web operation is to optimally plan for heterogeneous multiple sensors, the sampling strategies will be explored and science impact will be analyzed based on comprehensive modeling of atmospheric phenomena including convection, transport, and chemical process. Topics include system architecture, software architecture, hardware architecture, process flow, technology infusion, challenges, and future direction.

observation↗