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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 685 records · Page 38

Project SUPER

Support Program for Extraterrestrial Research designed for utilization of resources to support space program

SPACE PROGRAM↗

Development of a Space Vehicle Electromagnetic Interference/compatibility Specification. Volume 3 - System Specification

This specification represents a new approach to controlling electromagnetic interference. In this approach the system integration contractor will be responsible for the development of discrete specification limits to be utilized on the program to which this specification is applied. The specification limits imposed upon subsystem contractors will be developed by the use of a computer program, available from the procuring agency, which is designed to consider the total system electromagnetic environment in the computation of these limits. The integration contractor will be required to mathematically model those circuits which represent required emitters and receptors of electromagnetic energy on the space vehicle. There are contained herein, a list of available computer models into which must be inserted particular parameters of the spacecraft subsystems. These functional models, when inserted into the computer program, will develop discrete specification limits based upon the requirements of the particular system modelled.

Cooperstein, B. D.↗

The effects of outgassing materials on voltage breakdown

We will start by reviewing some of the basic equations which regulate outgassing and show their dependency on temperature and thickness. Then we will draw an analogy between mass transfer or outgassing and radiant heat transfer, and show how we utilize a computer program initially written for radiant heat transfer to determine the condensation rate caused by mass transfer.

J. F. Scannapieco↗

Finite element solution of lubrication problems

A variational formulation of the transient lubrication problem is presented and the corresponding finite element equations derived for three and six point triangles, and, four and eight point quadrilaterals. Test solutions for a one dimensional slider bearing used in validating the computer program are given. Utility of the method is demonstrated by a solution of the shrouded step bearing.

Reddi, M. M.↗

System modeling and optimal design of a Mars-roving vehicle.

The problem of systematically determining the optimal design for an unmanned Mars-roving vehicle is considered. A system model, identifying all feasible designs, is generated by consideration of the physical constraints on the design parameters, and the requirement that the system be deliverable to the Mars surface. An expression which evaluates system performance relative to mission goals is developed. The model and objective function together allow simulation of the effects of design trade-offs upon system performance for all feasible designs. Nonlinear programming techniques are utilized to identify the optimal design.

Smith, E. J.↗

Summary of an integrated ERTS-1 project and its results at the Missouri Geological Survey

Use of the ERTS imagery involved the recognition and interpretation of various ground patterns. Analysis and application are tied to ongoing programs. Specific studies utilizing the imagery and NASA aircraft photography are: a statewide lake and dam inventory; assessment of flooding and floodprone areas along the Missouri portion of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers; land-use classification for several counties; structural features in selected areas; and Pleistocene features in northern Missouri. Though it has been suggested that repetitive coverage is not necessary for geologic studies, it is this specific feature along with the synoptic view of large portions of the State that provided the potential for the utilization of the ERTS imagery in Missouri. Other State agencies, Departments of Conservation, Agriculture, and Community Affairs, have expressed interest in the potential application of ERTS data in their respective fields.

Martin, J. A.↗

Technology evaluation of control/monitoring systems for MIUS application

Potential ways of providing control and monitoring for the Modular Integrated Utility System (MIUS) program are elaborated. Control and monitoring hardware and operational systems are described. The requirements for the MIUS program and the development requirements are discussed.

Pringle, L. M., Jr.↗

NASA Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center's Metrology Program

Since the establishment in 1962 of the NASA-JSC Metrology Program, the Reference Standards Laboratory has successfully accomplished its goal and objectives. An on-going laboratory surveillance program, established for insuring a continuing validation of the measurements required at the center, is shown to remain at the forefront of modern technology through its involvement in activities such as the NBS sponsored Measurement Assurance Programs and the utilization of an Automatic Calibration System.

Suraci, J. M.↗

Technology survey of electrical power generation and distribution for MIUS application

Candidate electrical generation power systems for the modular integrated utility systems (MIUS) program are described. Literature surveys were conducted to cover both conventional and exotic generators. Heat-recovery equipment associated with conventional power systems and supporting equipment are also discussed. Typical ranges of operating conditions and generating efficiencies are described. Power distribution is discussed briefly. Those systems that appear to be applicable to MIUS have been indicated, and the criteria for equipment selection are discussed.

Gill, W. L.↗

The Synchronous Meteorological Satellite /SMS/ system

The Synchronous Meteorological Satellite (SMS) system is described which is being utilized in a program to obtain day and night information on the earth's weather by means of earth imaging, retransmission of imaged data, meteorological data collection and relay, and space environment monitoring. The components and functions of the ground system are discussed together with the basic satellite payloads. The launch and orbit of SMS-A are reviewed, and the functions of the visible IR spin-scan radiometer are described in detail. Other systems and units discussed include the data collection system, solar environment monitor, weather-facsimile unit, and central data distribution system. It is noted that SMS-A was used to support the Global Atlantic Tropical Experiment and that the SMS system will be complemented by geostationary environmental satellites from ESRO, Japan, and the USSR.

Fordyce, D. V.↗

An operational all-weather Great Lakes ice information system

A description is given of the NASA developed all-weather ice information system for the Great Lakes winter navigation program. The system utilizes an X-band side looking airborne radar (SLAR) for determining type, location, and areal distribution of the ice cover in the Great Lakes and an airborne, S band, down looking short pulse radar for obtaining ice thickness. Digitized SLAR data are relayed in real time via the NOAA-GOES satellite in geosynchronous orbit. The SLAR images along with hand drawn interpretative ice charts for various Great Lakes winter shipping areas are broadcast to facsimile recorders aboard vessles is the area via the MARAD marine VHF-FM radio network. These data assist such vessels in navigating both through and around the ice.

Gedney, R. T.↗

LACIE performance predictor FOC users manual

The LACIE Performance Predictor (LPP) is a computer simulation of the LACIE process for predicting worldwide wheat production. The simulation provides for the introduction of various errors into the system and provides estimates based on these errors, thus allowing the user to determine the impact of selected error sources. The FOC LPP simulates the acquisition of the sample segment data by the LANDSAT Satellite (DAPTS), the classification of the agricultural area within the sample segment (CAMS), the estimation of the wheat yield (YES), and the production estimation and aggregation (CAS). These elements include data acquisition characteristics, environmental conditions, classification algorithms, the LACIE aggregation and data adjustment procedures. The operational structure for simulating these elements consists of the following key programs: (1) LACIE Utility Maintenance Process, (2) System Error Executive, (3) Ephemeris Generator, (4) Access Generator, (5) Acquisition Selector, (6) LACIE Error Model (LEM), and (7) Post Processor.

Source record↗

A study of efficiency in low resistivity silicon solar cells

A general device-analysis program has been utilized to study the efficiency of silicon solar cells. The analysis is applied to specific geometries of both n(+)-p and n(+)-p-p(+) solar cells, and involves a numerical solution of the basic transport and continuity equations. This approach allows solutions that are free of typical limiting assumptions involved in solving the device equations as well as solutions relating to lifetime, mobility variations, and diffused-region profiles. The analysis includes available empirical information on diffusion length, mobility, and lifetime as a function of doping, as well as a Gaussian profile for the diffused region. Results are presented which illustrate the limitations of efficiency as a function of doping. It is found that the maximum efficiencies for both types of cell converge at lower resistivities to around 16% with air-mass-zero radiation and a single-layer absorbing-SiO antireflecting film. It is also found that the minority-carrier lifetime, both in the n(+) surface and p-type bulk regions, presents serious limitations to conversion efficiency, particularly in the low-resistivity cells.

Dunbar, P. M.↗

Earth and ocean modeling

A modular structured system of computer programs is presented utilizing earth and ocean dynamical data keyed to finitely defined parameters. The model is an assemblage of mathematical algorithms with an inherent capability of maturation with progressive improvements in observational data frequencies, accuracies and scopes. The Eom in its present state is a first-order approach to a geophysical model of the earth's dynamics.

Knezovich, F. M.↗

Spacelab contamination assessment. Payload/orbiter contamination control requirement study

The activities and the results obtained under the payload/orbiter contamination control requirement study were documented, and the integrated shuttle payload contamination evaluation computer model was developed. Spacelab design and development analysis based upon the predicted Spacelab induced contaminant environments were conducted utilizing the space program.

Bareiss, L. E.↗

Satellite communication for public services

Public service programs using NASA's ATS-6 and CTS satellites are discussed. Examples include the ATS-6 Health and Education Telecommunications experimental program and the use of CTS to enable students in one university to take courses presented at another distant university. Possible applications of satellite communication systems to several areas of public service are described, and economic and political obstacles hindering the implementation of these programs are considered. It is suggested that a federally sponsored program demonstrating the utility of satellites accomodating a large number of small terminals is needed to encourage commercial satellite operations.

Cooper, R. S.↗