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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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All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS2016

The Biophysics Microgravity Initiative

Biophysical microgravity research on the International Space Station using biological materials has been ongoing for several decades. The well-documented substantive effects of long duration microgravity include the facilitation of the assembly of biological macromolecules into large structures, e.g., formation of large protein crystals under micro-gravity. NASA is invested not only in understanding the possible physical mechanisms of crystal growth, but also promoting two flight investigations to determine the influence of μ-gravity on protein crystal quality. In addition to crystal growth, flight investigations to determine the effects of shear on nucleation and subsequent formation of complex structures (e.g., crystals, fibrils, etc.) are also supported. It is now considered that long duration microgravity research aboard the ISS could also make possible the formation of large complex biological and biomimetic materials. Investigations of various materials undergoing complex structure formation in microgravity will not only strengthen NASA science programs, but may also provide invaluable insight towards the construction of large complex tissues, organs, or biomimetic materials on Earth.

Gorti, S.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Albedo of a forest modeled as a plane with dense protrusions

An analytical model for the absorption of solar radiation by surfaces such as a pine forest or a wheat field is presented. Objectives include understanding the parameters affecting the absorption of the solar irradiance in a complex structure, and determining the influence of the direction of illumination on light trapping. The surface is treated as a Lambertian reflectivity soil-plane; thin, vertical cylinders are regarded as Lambertian reflectors. Using a dimensionless protrusion parameter based on the height and diameter of the vertical plant elements, optical characteristics (e.g., the dependence of the albedo on the solar zenith angle) of a complex structure are well quantified.

Otterman, J.↗
DOE OSTI2024

Moduli axions, stabilizing moduli, and the large field swampland conjecture in heterotic M-theory

We compute the F- and D-term potential energy for the dilaton, complex structure, and Kähler moduli of realistic vacua of heterotic M-theory compactified on Calabi-Yau threefolds where, for simplicity, we choose ℎ 1,1 = ℎ 2,1 = 1. However, the formalism is immediately applicable to the “universal” moduli of Calabi-Yau threefolds with ℎ 1,1 = ℎ 1,2 > 1 as well. The F-term potential is computed using the nonperturbative complex structure, gaugino condensate and “world sheet instanton” superpotentials in theories in which the hidden sector contains an anomalous U⁡(1) structure group. The Green-Schwarz anomaly cancellation induces inhomogeneous “axion” transformations for the imaginary components of the dilaton and Kähler modulus—which then produce a D-term potential. V D is a function of the real components of the dilaton and Kähler modulus (s and t) that is minimized and precisely vanishes along a unique line in the s–t plane. Excitations transverse to this line have a mass m anom which is an explicit function of t. The F-term potential energy is then evaluated along the V D = 0 line. For values of t small enough that m anom ≳ M U —where M U is the compactification scale—we plot V F for a realistic choice of coefficients as a function of the Pfaffian parameter p. We find values of p for which V F has a global minimum at negative or zero vacuum density or a metastable minimum with positive vacuum density. In all three cases, the s, t, and associated “axion” moduli are completely stabilized. Finally, we show that, for any of these vacua, the large t behavior of the potential energy satisfies the “large scalar field” Swampland conjecture.

72 PHYSICS OF ELEMENTARY PARTICLES AND FIELDS↗
NASA NTRS1985

Reduction method for thermal analysis of complex aerospace structures

A reduction method which combines classical Rayleigh-Ritz modal superposition techniques with contemporary finite-element methods is applied to transient nonlinear thermal analysis of aerospace structures. The essence of the method is the use of a few thermal modes from eigenvalue analyses as basis vectors to represent the temperature response in the structure. The method is used to obtain approximate temperature histories for a portion of the Shuttle orbiter wing subject to reentry heating and for a large space antenna reflector subject to heating associated with a low Earth orbit. The reduction method has excellent potential for significant size reduction for radiation-dominated problems such as the antenna reflector. However, for conduction-dominated problems such as the Shuttle wing, especially those with complex spatial and temporal variations in the applied heating, additional work appears necessary to find alternate sources of basis vectors which will permit significant problem size reductions.

Shore, C. P.↗
NASA NTRS2002

A New Method for Estimating the Single Scattering Phase Functions of Regolith Grains

Hapke's photometric model has been widely used in solar system remote sensing applications for nearly two decades. Recently, Hapke extended his model to describe the coherent-backscatter opposition effect and multiple-scattering by particles with anisotropic single particle phase functions (SPPF's). A practical difficulty for retrieving Hapke's model parameters from typical planet, satellite, and asteroid photometry data sets is that the model employs a large number of adjustable parameters (at least eight) that can be reliably constrained only for a small number of planetary data sets in which both disk-resolved and whole-disk observations are available from opposition to very large phase angles. The present work aims to reduce the number of adjustable parameters and preserve (or even enhance) the model's accuracy and usefulness by expressing Hapke's parameters in terms of more fundamental physical properties on which they mutually depend. The most difficult part of this task, described here, is to develop a simple method for computing the effective SPPF for structurally complex regolith grains from optical constants, grain-size distribution, and average regolith porosity. The development of light-scattering models for irregularly shaped particles is a large, complex subject and many sophisticated methods, such as Discrete Dipole Approximation (DDA) and Monte-Carlo simulations, have been explored elsewhere. Many of these methods are computationally intensive and probably impractical for routine substitution in Hapke's model. Here, progress is reported in developing a practical, semi-empirical method for estimating the directional scattering behavior (i.e. SPPF) of irregular regolith grains. The method employs Optical Transfer Function (OTF) techniques to model how the structural complexity of regolith particles broaden and attenuate the angular distribution of scattered light relative to that expected from ideal spherical particles of equivalent size and composition.

Helfenstein, P.↗
NASA NTRS2019

Challenges and Solutions for Precision Solar Pointing on the ISS for the TSIS Instrument

The International Space Station offers an attractive platform for external payloads in many regards, but its large, complex structure is challenging for payloads that require precise, unobstructed pointing. As an instrument that measures solar irradiance on a continual basis, the TSIS payload was designed to robustly account for these ISS challenges and is now performing its mission on the ISS with great success.This paper first describes how TSIS was able to measure the ISS background jitter using High-rate Fine Sun Sensor data that was taken during passive solar transits through its field of view. The measurements showed that ISS jitter at the TSIS location on ELC-3 Site 5 is relatively benign with less than 4 arcseconds 1 at frequencies less than 0.5 Hz. This value is lower than previous estimates but agrees well with recent measurements from other external payloads, including OPALS and SAGE III. Because TSIS was designed to be robust to base motion jitter, it has achieved less than 4 arcseconds 1 of pointing error, which provides an extremely precise pointing platform for the solar irradiance measurements. The other challenging ISS characteristic is its large, complex structure that obscures solar viewing at sunrise and sunset from the zenith-facing location of TSIS. Although TSIS was able to predict solar viewing durations during the design phase with relatively high accuracy, the exact timing and causes of obscuration were difficult to predict and understand after TSIS began operating on the ISS. To aid in the understanding of blockage by ISS structure, detailed obscuration maps were created using HFSS measurements that clearly show the exact gimbal angles where blockage occurs and the specific structural features of the ISS that cause the blockage. These maps have helped TSIS to maximize its solar tracking durations each orbit, which has supported the mission in meeting its science objectives.

background jitter↗
NASA NTRS1983

A long-lived mesoscale convective complex. II - Evolution and structure of the mature complex

The present investigation is concerned with an eight-day episode, during which a series of mesoscale convective complexes (MCC) developed and moved across the country, producing heavy rain and some flooding over an extensive region. An overview of the considered period from August 3 to August 10, 1977 is presented, and the evolution of the August 4 storm is examined. The structure of the mature MCC is discussed, taking into account the August 4-5 storm, a comparative case involving the August 3-4 storm, and an evaluation of the observed phenomena. It is concluded that MCCs are basically tropical in nature and that their dynamics are dominated by buoyant accelerations. It was found that the MCCs developed a warm-core, divergent anticyclonic flow pattern in the upper troposphere which was not present prior to the development of convection. A similar structure is observed in tropical cloud clusters.

Wetzel, P. J.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Self-assembly of wood-based shape memory composites triggered by solar-thermal energy

Transporting and assembling large, complex structures poses significant challenges due to their size, geometry, and cost. Additionally, the installation sites are often inaccessible or hazardous for humans, necessitating self-assembling capabilities in these structures. To mitigate these challenges, we propose using 3D printing materials with shape memory effect (SME) for both transport and construction. This approach involves developing 3D modular components into flat sheets for easier transportation, and then self-assembling into 3D structures on-site using solar energy. To gain a deeper understanding of the factors influencing material memory performance, we have chosen a composite PLA/WF, which is polylactic acid (PLA) with 20 wt% wood flour (WF) for this purpose, leveraging its high tensile modulus at 0.966 GPa, low cost, and sustainability. Printed shapes with this material can maintain a recovery ratio over 90% after 3 cycles. While traditional composites fillers (e.g. glass or carbon fiber) are added to enhance mechanical and thermal properties, the addition of bio-based fillers like WF accomplish similar goals without compromising sustainability. We conducted multiple experiments to demonstrate how environmental conditions (i.e. temperature) maximize the material’s SME. Although still at an early stage, this study provides initial insights into bridging the gap between the small-scale nature of shape memory polymers (SMPs) and their potential for large-scale additive manufacturing, addressing a critical need for efficient and sustainable construction. In the long term, we hope our study contributes to the design vision of utilizing SMPs for transportation, assembly, and deployment of complex structures, providing a new pathway for sustainable construction and transportation of large-scale structures to hard-to-access locations such as disaster-affected areas and remote deserts, etc.

4D printing↗
NASA NTRS1976

Computer modeling of electromagnetic problems using the geometrical theory of diffraction

Some applications of the geometrical theory of diffraction (GTD), a high frequency ray optical solution to electromagnetic problems, are presented. GTD extends geometric optics, which does not take into account the diffractions occurring at edges, vertices, and various other discontinuities. Diffraction solutions, analysis of basic structures, construction of more complex structures, and coupling using GTD are discussed.

Burnside, W. D.↗
NASA NTRS1984

Predicting Noise in Complex Aircraft Structures

Technique combines theoretical and empirical aspects of structural components. Experimental and analytical program produces test and analysis procedures for predicting extent of noise generated in aircraft. Purpose of program to develop ways of screening candidate materials considered for noise control and establish test procedures for verifying choice of particular control measure.

Unruh, J. F.↗
NASA NTRS1985

A Taylor-Galerkin finite element algorithm for transient nonlinear thermal-structural analysis

A Taylor-Galerkin finite element solution algorithm for transient nonlinear thermal-structural analysis of large, complex structural problems subjected to rapidly applied thermal-structural loads is described. The two-step Taylor-Galerkin algorithm is an application of an algorithm recently developed for problems in compressible fluid dynamics. The element integrals that appear in the algorithm can be evaluated in closed form for two and three dimensional elements.

Thornton, Earl A.↗
NASA NTRS1993

A new method for the identification of non-Gaussian line profiles in elliptical galaxies

A new parameterization for the line profiles of elliptical galaxies, the Gauss-Hermite series, is proposed. This approach expands the line profile as a sum of orthogonal functions which minimizes the correlations between the errors in the parameters of the fit. This method also make use of the fact that Gaussians provide good low-order fits to observed line profiles. The method yields measurements of the line strength, mean radial velocity, and the velocity dispersion as well as two extra parameters, h3 and h4, that measure asymmetric and symmetric deviations of the line profiles from a Gaussian, respectively. The new method was used to derive profiles for three elliptical galaxies which all have asymmetric line profiles on the major axis with symmetric deviations from a Gaussian. Results confirm that elliptical galaxies have complex structures due to their complex formation history.

Van Der Marel, Roeland P.↗
NASA NTRS1996

Clastic Breccias at the Slates Islands Complex Impact Structure, Northern Lake Superior

About 150 impact craters are known on Earth and each year several structures are added to this number. The general geology of the Slate Islands archipelago has been described by Sage (1991) and a short summary based on Sage's work is given in Dressler et al. (1995). The reader is referred to these publications for information on the bedrock geology of the island group. Early studies on the Slate Islands impact structure include: Halls and Grieve (1976), Grieve and Robertson (1976) and Stesky and Halls (1983). In this report, we provide a summary of the impact process as presently understood. We also present some of the results of our laboratory investigations conducted in 1995 and 1996. We describe in some detail the various clastic breccias encountered on the islands during our 1994 and 1995 field work and relate them to the various phases of the impact process. A more encompassing treatise on the breccias has been submitted for publication. (Dressler and Sharpton 1996).

Dressler, B. O.↗
NASA NTRS1999

Slate Islands, Lake Superior, Canada: A mid-size, Complex Impact Structure

The target rocks of the 30-32-km diameter Slate Islands impact structure in northern Lake Superior, Canada, are Archean supracrustal and igneous rocks and supracrustal Proterozoic rocks. Shatter cones, pseudotachylites, impact glasses, and microscopic shock metamorphic features were formed during the contact and compression phase of the impact process, followed, during excavation and central uplift, by polymict, clastic matrix breccias in the uplifted target, and by allogenic fall-back breccias (suevite and bunte breccia). Monomict, autoclastic breccias were mainly observed on Mortimer Island and the other outlying islands of the archipelago and were probably generated relatively late in the impact process (central uplift and/or crater modification). The frequency of low index planar shock metamorphic features in quartz was correlated with results from shock experiments to estimate shock pressures experienced by the target rocks. The resulting shock attenuation plan across the archipelago is irregular, probably because the shock wave did not expand from a point or spherical source, and because of the destruction of an originally more regular shock attenuation plan during the central uplift and crater modification stages of the impact process. No impact melt rock bodies have been positively identified on the islands. An impact melt may be present in the annular trough around the islands, though and-based on a weighted mixture of target rocks-may have an intermediate-mafic composition. No such impact melt was found on the archipelago. An Ar-40-Ar-39 release spectrum of a pseudotachylite provides an age of about 436 Ma for the impact structure, substantiating age constraints based on various stratigraphic considerations.

Dressler, B. O.↗