Recursive Computation of the Generalized Q Function

A recursive method of computing values of the generalized Q function is described. The Q function is also interpreted in terms of noncentral chi-square distributed random variables, and in terms of the difference between Poisson random variables.     

Further Results on Multipath Angle Error Reduction Using Multiple-Target Methods

The two-target technique proposed by the author in an earlier paper [1] for reducing radar multipath angle tracking errors has been simulated on a digital computer assuming an actual closed-loop system. When tracking with noise, the technique provides angle error performance which compares quite favorably with the expected performance given in [1] Furthermore, the large bias errors usually encountered in normal monopulse systems at low elevation angles are removed. Results of typical tracks are given, both for the method of [1], and for a modified version of the method which applies primarily to shipboard radar systems. Some results on loss of lock are also presented.     

A UHF True Logarithmic IF Amplifier

A UHF ?true logarithmic IF? which yields a carrier output proportional in amplitude to the logarithm of the carrier input has been constructed. Although this ?true? form has been known for a number of years, it appears to have been neglected in development. Good performance has been obtained over a 60-dB input signal range with rise and fall times of 2 ns per 20 dB. A high-level, detected dc coupled output without the use of any dc amplifier is obtained. Coherent signal processing of the output carrier is possible, and other important advantages to this type of logarithmic IF are described.     

Simplified Optimum Modulation Indices

The design of a narrowband, phase-modulated, multisubcarrier, phase-coherent, space-communication system requires that the subcarrier modulation indices be kept within close tolerance limits. This need arises since the modulation indices directly affect the division of power among the carrier and subcarriers. If the system is not designed in an optimum manner to handle large tolerance variation, the system performance may degrade sharply in an adverse environment. A universal graphical technique?modulation loss contours?is developed as a design tool for the ?optimum? selection of modulation indices. The technique is novel in that it yields solutions directly from the universal curves and does not require the drawing of additional curves. Two criteria of optimization are considered, simultaneous thresholding and minimal sensitivity. The minimally sensitive case is considered as weighted simultaneous thresholding and is solved by the aid of a graphical algorithm. The technique is applicable to k subcarriers (sinusoidal and/or square wave), considering three subcarriers at a time-two subcarriers as direct variables and the third as a parameter?all other subcarriers remaining constant. Previous techniques required trial and error methods, drawing of curves, or computerized search techniques to arrive at the proper modulation indices and maximum tolerance bands. This method allows a quick solution to the tolerance problem and optimum selection of modulation indices, facilitating the design and/or analysis of narrowband PM systems.     

Analysis of a Long-Distance System Measuring the Concentration of Atmospheric Gaseous Pollutants

A detailed inaccuracy and sensitivity analysis of a long-distance air pollution detection system, using a laser measuring the resonance absorption of polluting molecules, is introduced. The noise and the dynamic range of the radiation detectors used, the atmospheric inhomogeneities, and the atmospheric propagation losses of the electromagnetic radiation are considered. In addition, the best measuring path length as a function of a molecule density and atmospheric transparency and irregularity is discussed.     

Closed-Form Expressions for Noncoherent Radar Integration Gain and Collapsing Loss

Closed-form formulas allow rapid determination of noncoherent integration gain and integration loss when the single-sample IF signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is known. In addition, if the required SNR is known for any number of integrated pulses, the required SNR for any other number is easily determined. A closed-form expression is given for radar collapsing loss, expressed in terms of the equivalent integrated signal-to-noise ratio required to produce a given combination of false-alarm and detection probabilities. Alternatively, the single-sample signal-to-noise ratio of a set of samples may be used together with the closed-form expression for integration gain to get the equivalent integrated signal-to-noise ratio.     

Imaging of the outer planets and satellites

Imaging is the most widely applicable single means of exploring the outer planets and their satellites and also complements other planet-oriented instruments. Imaging generally is more effectively carried out from a three-axis stabilized spacecraft than from a spinning one.Both specific experimental and broader exploratory goals must be recognized. Photography of Jupiter from terrestrial telescopes has revealed features which were neither predictable or predicted. Close-up imaging from fly-bys and orbiters affords the opportunity for discovery of atmospheric phenomena on the outer planets forever beyond the reach of terrestrial laboratories and intuition. On the other hand, a large number of specific applications of close-up imaging to study the giant planets are suggested by experience in photography from Earth and Mars orbit, and by ground-based telescopic studies of Jupiter and Saturn. Photographic observations of horizontal and vertical cloud structure at both global and finer scale, and motions and other time changes, will be essential for the study of atmospheric circulation. Size and composition of cloud particles also is a credible objective of fly-by and orbiter missions carrying both imaging and photo-polarimeter experiments.The satellites of the outer planets actually constitute three distinct classes: lunar-sized objects, asteroidal-sized objects, and particulate rings. Imaging promises to be the primary observational tool for each category with results that could impact scientific thinking in the late 70's and 80's as significantly as has close-up photography of Mars and the Moon in the last 10 yr.Finally, it should be recognized that photography occupies a unique role in the interaction between science and the popular mind. This popular, educational aspect of imaging constitutes a unique aspect of 20th Century culture. Imaging therefore is not only a primary basis for scientific discovery in the exploration of the outer planets, but an important human endeavor of enduring significance.Contribution No. 2163 of the Division of Geological and Planetary Sciences, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91109.This is one of the publications by the Science Advisory Group.     

Radio physics of the outer solar system

The remote sensing of low frequency nonthermal radio emission is the astronomy of field and particle phenomena. Observations conducted from space lead to information about the composition and dynamic processes occurring in planetary magnetospheres as well as within the interplanetary and interstellar medium. The potential of this technique is demonstrated by considering observations obtained from Earth orbit missions.This is one of the publications by the Science Advisory Group.     

Elemental and isotopic abundances of the volatile elements in the outer planets

Certain fundamental scientific problems of a cosmological as well as cosmogonic character, may be solved by the insertion of entry probes into the atmospheres of the outer planets. It is recommended that attempts be made to determine the elemental and isotopic abundances of H, D, He³, He⁴, C, N, O, S, and the rare gas elements. These determinations should cast much light on the processes which participated in the assembly of the giant planets. This would give powerful boundary conditions on theories of the origin of the solar system, and would also give additional experimental information bearing on cosmology.This is one of the publications by the Science Advisory Group.