Sunspot motions and magnetic shears as precusors of flares

Using full-disc white light photoheliograms, we have studied umbrae motion and variations in sunspot areas in a large activity complex over 4 solar rotations. On the basis of the observational data we illustrate with typical examples to what extent rapid spot motions are associated with flare occurrences.     

Recent developments in space-borne zodiacal light photometry

The 1985 International Solar Polar Mission will provide the first opportunity to perform measurements from out of the ecliptic and from above the solar poles. Included in this mission is the Zodiacal Light/Background Starlight Experiment of the Ruhr-University Bochum, FRG (in collaboration with the State University of New York at Albany). The experiment is based on the use of a multicolor, sky-scanning photopolarimeter, which will be carried on the NASA S/C.The scientific objectives of the experiment are to investigate the intensity, polarization, and color of the diffuse sky brightness and determine the spatial distribution and physical properties of the interplanetary dust, including a possible interstellar component, as a function of S/C position in and out of the ecliptic.The instrument will allow simultaneous measurements in two separate wavelength bands. Measurements will be performed at 180, 220, 240, 280, 320, 350, 360, 440, 540, 640, 800 nm, including the state of polarization. Two different fields-of-view (1 sq deg and 5.6 sq deg) can be selected.The use of a microprocessor system in the instrument electronics will provide flexibility in measurement sequences and programs, on-board data processing and data quality control.     

Binary Signal Detection with Decision and Information Feedbacks

This paper analyzes a sequential feedback detection scheme derived by Kramer's nonsequential intermittent one; in addition to the noiseless information feedback channel, it makes use of a noiseless decision feedback channel. Expressions for the normalized average evergy per symbol, average decision time, probability of error, and average power are derived. The comparison with the nonsequential intermittent scheme shows that the proposed one allows an appreciable gain in transmission rate and requires a smaller peak-to-average power ratio.     

Core collapse,bounce aid shock propagation

Recent developments in the physics input for iron core collapse models of type II supernovae are reviewed. The effect of these developments on collapse calculations is also discussed. The inner core collapses homologously, with little change in specific entropy, bounces in the neighborhood of nuclear density, and sets up an outward moving shock. In adiabatic models an explosion may result. The Inclusion of neutrino effects may produce substantial shock damping. Current results indicate that core collapse, bounce and shock propagation does not produce an explosion when neutrino effects are included.     

Rocket measurements of mesospheric ionization irregularities

The Langmuir-probe technique for measurement of electron concentration in the mesosphere is capable of excellent altitude resolution, of order 1 m. Measurements from nine rocket flights frequently show small-scale ionization structures in the altitude region 60–90 km. These are believed to be identical with regions of strong coherent backscatter seem by VHF radars at Jicamarca, Peru and Urbana, Illinois. They are believed to represent intermittent turbulence attributable to nonlinear interaction of waves in the mesosphere. Parameters of the turbulent regions are estimated.     

Modified Barker and Huffman Sequences in Combination Codes

lt is possible that usable combination codes can be obtained if Barker and Huffman sequences are chosen as the inner and outer codes. lt is shown that an improvement in either energy efficiency or time sidelobe structure will result either from a modification of a Huffman sequence or from a modification of a Barker sequence. Results are given for a combination code of length 91, with inner and outer codes of length 7 and 13.     

The Voyager mission Photopolarimeter Experiment

The Voyager Photopolarimeter Experiment is designed to determine the physical properties of particulate matter in the atmospheres of Jupiter, Saturn, and the Rings of Saturn by measuring the intensity and linear polarization of scattered sunlight at eight wavelengths in the 2350–7500 Å region of the spectrum. The experiment will also provide information on the texture and probable composition of the surfaces of the satellites of Jupiter and Saturn and the properties of the sodium cloud around Io. During the planetary encounters a search for optical evidence of electrical discharges (lightning) and auroral activity will also be conducted.     

Controlled experiments from the space shuttle

A study has been carried out to identify the controlled space physics and plasma physics experiments that can be performed from the space shuttle on sortie missions of 7 to 30-day duration. An experiment facility of this type appears to be well-matched to the sortie missions capability, and a technically feasible laboratory can provide a base for an extensive and significant research program to be carried out during the 1980–1990 time period. The laboratory, known as PPEPL, consists of a 33-ft pallet of instruments connected to a 25-ft pressurized control module. Two deployable 50-m booms, two subsatellites, a high power transmitter, a multipurpose high-power accelerator array, a set of deployable canisters for releases, and a gimbaled platform for pointing instruments are the primary systems mounted on the pallet.