An interior point linear programming approach to two-scan dataassociation

We present an efficient two-scan data association method (TSDA) based on an interior point linear programming (LP) approach. In this approach, the TSDA problem is first formulated as a 3-dimensional assignment problem, and then relaxed to a linear program; the latter is subsequently solved by the highly efficient homogeneous, self-dual interior point LP algorithm. When the LP algorithm generates a fractional optimal solution, we use a technique similar to the joint probabilistic data association method (JPDA) to compute a weighted average of the resulting fractional assignments, and use it to update the states of the existing tracks generated by Kalman filters. Unlike the traditional single scan JPDA method, our TSDA method provides an explicit mechanism for track initiation. Extensive computer simulations have demonstrated that the new TSDA method is not only far more efficient in terms of low computational complexity, but also considerably more accurate than the existing single-scan JPDA method     

Microperturbations on the <Emphasis Type="Italic">International Space Station</Emphasis> during physical exercises of the crew

The results of a preliminary analysis of microperturbations on the International Space Station during physical exercises of the crew are presented. The goal of this paper is to identify the parameters of perturbations when physical exercises are performed. The results of measurements by sensors of microaccelerations of both Russian and American segments during physical exercises in the service module of the Russian segment are analyzed.     

A method to ensure energy security of satellite communication systems

A method is substantiated to ensure energy security for the satellite communication systems (SCS) at a close position of the radio interception receiver. This is done by lowering the carrier frequency down to f ₀ = 60…80 MHz and by applying spaced measurements with n ≥ 4 receiving antennas.     

Stellar coronagraph using the principle of achromatic null-interferometer

In order to observe exoplanets we propose a space-based achromatic stellar coronagraph combined with a 0.8–1.5 m telescope. We develop an achromatic common path interferometer for observing an exoplanet (a faint off-axis source) on the background of a hoste star (bright axial source). An image of the star and its copy acquire an achromatic phase shift by 180° and interfere in antiphase. The achromatic phase shift is caused by geometric phase in the scheme of a three-dimensional interferometer. The interference process divides spatially the dark and light fields of the star image redirecting them to the opposite sides of a beam splitter. The interference process does not weaken the image of a planet, with equal intensities it is redirected to both sides of a beam splitter. The suggested scheme of common path interferometer ensures mechanical stability. The background signal is experimentally demonstrated to be reduced by six orders of magnitude.     

Solution to the problem of stability of regular precessions of a symmetrical gyrostat in Newtonian field

The constraints imposed on parameters of a force field and of a symmetrical gyrostat in it are determined, at which regular precession of this gyrostat demonstrate Lyapunov stability (or, respectively, instability).     

Consequences of collisions of natural cosmic bodies with the Earth’s atmosphere and surface

Possible consequences of collisions of natural cosmic bodies with the Earth’s atmosphere and surface are described. The methodological basis of classification of consequences is the solution of meteor physics equations characterizing the trajectory of a body in the atmosphere, namely, the dependence of the body’s velocity and mass on the flight altitude. The solution depends on two dimensionless parameters characterizing the drag altitude and the role of mass loss by a meteoroid during its motion in the atmosphere. Depending on values of these parameters, the degree of effect on the planetary surface considerably changes. In particular, the conditions of cratering and meteorite fall on the planetary surface are obtained. The results are presented in a simple analytical form. They quite match to the real events considered in the paper. Recommendations are given on further investigations into the important problem of interaction of cosmic bodies with planetary atmospheres.     

Vibrations of a shell with the discretely attached dynamic subsystem

A problem on low vibrations of a thin spherical shell is considered. A solid of finite dimensions is discretely attached to the shell by means of an elastic rod system. The calculation examples are presented.     

A technique of analyzing critical forces and moments for isotropic rods of arbitrary cross-section in the general case of their complex resistance

The derivation of parametric equations for a limiting surface in the space of internal forces and moments that act in the rod cross-sections, using the basic concepts of plasticity theory and conventional hypotheses of the rod theory, is presented. The plastic properties of rod material are described by the Mises criterion. A case of small displacements and strains under static simple loading is considered. The results of solving a number of problems of constructing limiting curves in the planes of internal forces and moments are given.     

Forecasting the future in space: Highlights from the TechCast Project

Space technology and activities have changed markedly from the early days of the space era and are continuing to develop rapidly. The TechCast Project—set up to pool the knowledge of experts in the scientific fields—includes space in its predictions. Here its president reports on its space forecasts for the 21st century. The importance of the shift towards the privatization of space is noted and the near-to-medium-term impossibility of interstellar travel conceded. Contact with ETI is deemed much more likely, however.     

Genomic instability and tumorigenic induction in immortalized human bronchial epithelial cells by heavy ions

Carcinogenesis is postulated to be a progressive multistage process characterized by an increase in genomic instability and clonal selection with each mutational event endowing a selective growth advantage. Genomic instability as manifested by the amplification of specific gene fragments is common among tumor and transformed cells. In the present study, immortalized human bronchial (BEP2D) cells were irradiated with graded doses of either 1GeV/nucleon ⁵⁶Fe ions or 150 keV/μm alpha particles. Transformed cells developed through a series of successive steps before becoming tumorigenic in nude mice. Tumorigenic cells showed neither ras mutations nor deletion in the p16 tumor suppressor gene. In contrast, they harbored mutations in the p53 gene and over-expressed cyclin D1. Genomic instability among transformed cells at various stage of the carcinogenic process was examined based on frequencies of PALA resistance. Incidence of genomic instability was highest among established tumor cell lines relative to transformed, non-tumorigenic and control cell lines. Treatment of BEP2D cells with a 4 mM dose of the aminothiol WR-1065 significantly reduced their neoplastic transforming response to ⁵⁶Fe particles. This model provides an opportunity to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in malignant transformation of human epithelial cells by heavy ions.