机动目标跟踪的非线性IMM算法

在目标跟踪时，测量噪声通常假定为高斯状，然而这种假设不一定正确，噪声有可能是非高斯型的。在雷达系统中出现的非高斯噪声被认为是闪烁噪声，闪烁噪声呈长尾形分布，此分布将严重影响跟踪性能。现已发展一种新的算法，可以在闪烁环境下有效地跟踪机动目标。该算法将非线性Ｍａｓｒｅｌｉｅｚ滤波器引入交互式多模型方法中。我们用模拟试验来验证新算法的优越性。     

Implementing human factors training in technical operations and maintenance

The author reports experience with design of human factors training for aircraft engineering operations and maintenance. The program was based on five principles: observable skills-based training; integration with policies, practices, and procedures; data-driven and performance focused material; training needs fit organizational and national cultures; and training must be useful and beneficial.     

Structured methods for identifying and correcting potential human errors in space operations

Human performance plays a significant role in the development and operation of any complex system, and human errors are significant contributors to degraded performance, incidents, and accidents for technologies as diverse as medical systems, commercial aircraft, offshore oil platforms, nuclear power plants, and space systems. To date, serious accidents attributed to human error have fortunately been rare in space operations. However, as flight rates go up and the duration of space missions increases, the accident rate could increase unless proactive action is taken to identity and correct potential human errors in space operations. The Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) has developed and applied structured methods of human error analysis to identify potential human errors, assess their effects on system performance, and develop strategies to prevent the errors or mitigate their consequences. These methods are being applied in NASA-sponsored programs to the domain of commercial aviation, focusing on airplane maintenance and air traffic management. The application of human error analysis to space operations could contribute to minimize the risks associated with human error in the design and operation of future space systems.     

Development of Skylab medical equipment and flight preparations

The purpose of this report is to provide an introduction and overview of the Skylab medical program. Some of the more important medical systems and equipment provided for crew sustenance are described. The major inflight medical experiments are reviewed, and the test programs are discussed. The medical operations procedures and the techniques used to monitor crew health are reviewed to provide an understanding of the medical management of this complex mission.     

Humans to Mars: a feasibility and cost-benefit analysis

Mars is a compelling astrobiological target, and a human mission would provide an opportunity to collect immense amounts of scientific data. Exploration alone, however, cannot justify the increased risk. Instead, three factors drive a human mission: economics, education, and exploration. A human mission has a unique potential to inspire the next generation of young people to enter critically needed science and engineering disciplines. A mission is economically feasible, and the research and development program put in place for a human mission would propel growth in related high-technology industries. The main hurdles are human physiological responses to 1–2 years of radiation and microgravity exposure. However, enabling technologies are sufficiently mature in these areas that they can be developed within a few decade timescale. Hence, the decision of whether or not to undertake a human mission to Mars is a political decision, and thus, educational and economic benefits are the crucial factors.