Gravity sensing in moss protonemata.

Moss protonemata are a valuable system for studying gravitropism because both sensing and upward curvature (oriented tip growth) take place in the same cell. We review existing evidence, especially for Ceratodon purpureus, that addresses whether the mass that functions in sensing is that of amyloplasts that sediment. Recent experiments show that gravitropism can take place in media that are denser than the apical cell. This indicates that gravity sensing relies on an intracellular mass rather than that of the entire cell and provides further support for the starch-statolith hypothesis of sensing. Possible mechanisms for how amyloplast mass functions in sensing and transduction are discussed.     

Experimental investigations on hull-fin interferences of the LOTTE airship

In the present paper experimental aerodynamic investigations on an airship configuration at angle of attack with special emphasis on the hull-fin region are reported. In particular, visualizations of flow phenomena on both hull and fins are studied. Quantitative measurements of the integral force and moment characteristics as well as local pressure coefficients serve to establish a data pool for code validation.     

Comparison of hindlimb unloading and partial weight suspension models for spaceflight-type condition induced effects on white blood cells

Animal models are frequently used to assist in the determination of the long- and short-term effects of space flight. The space environment, including microgravity, can impact many physiological and immunological system parameters. It has been found that ground based models of microgravity produce changes in white blood cell counts, which negatively affects immunologic function. As part of the Center of Acute Radiation Research (CARR), we compared the acute effects on white blood cell parameters induced by the more traditionally used animal model of hindlimb unloading (HU) with a recently developed reduced weightbearing analog known as partial weight suspension (PWS). Female ICR mice were either hindlimb unloaded or placed in the PWS system at 16% quadrupedal weightbearing for 4 h, 1, 2, 7 or 10 days, at which point complete blood counts were obtained. Control animals (jacketed and non-jacketed) were exposed to identical conditions without reduced weightbearing. Results indicate that significant changes in total white blood cell (WBC), neutrophil, lymphocyte, monocyte and eosinophil counts were observed within the first 2 days of exposure to each system. These differences in blood cell counts normalized by day 7 in both systems. The results of these studies indicate that there are some statistically significant changes observed in the blood cell counts for animals exposed to both the PWS and HU simulated microgravity systems.     

The german microgravity program: Objectives and present status

Within the space program of the Federal Republic of Germany the microgravity program in connection with the utilization of SPACELAB constitutes a central task which determines the long-term program concepts and also their relation to German participation in future ESA programs.The scientific preparatory programs under way for some years now have made further progress. Extensive flight experience and valuable scientific results were obtained on the basis of successful rocket pre-programs. The present paper describes the process in which scientific and organisational priorities are being defined for the planning and execution of the experimental programs.In order to obtain a sufficient number of flight opportunities, payloads for SPACE SHUTTLE missions, in particular under the NASA GAS Program, as well as experimental equipment such as the materials laboratory (MSDR) for FSLP are being developed. The German program focuses on preparing a German SPACELAB mission D1 planned for 1985, which is intended to verify the applicability and efficiency of manned research laboratories for industry and the scientific community. A second emphasis is on preparing the use of SHUTTLE-supported re-usable space platforms.     

A slotted waveguide array antenna from carbon fibre reinforced plastics for the European space SAR

This paper deals with the design of a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR)-antenna for the proposed European Remote Sensing Satellite. Electrical performance requirements and geometric constraints impose stringent conditions upon structural configuration and mechanical tolerances. A slotted waveguide array antenna is presented in a deployable configuration. It is composed of 5 radiating panels, and a foldable truss structure. Carbon fibre reinforced plastic material is used for structural elements and waveguides.     

Experiments on velocity augmentation of spherical flames by grids

Using spherical wire mesh screens with a wire diameter d and a mesh size l, an experimental study was carried out involving homogeneous mixtures of propane/air, ethylene/air, acetylene/air and with oxygen enriched air. Streak photographs of the processes were taken, yielding information on the flame propagation speeds inside and outside the screen. The ratio of the two speeds immediately before and after crossing the screen, α, can be interpreted as practically equivalent (for the same “heat release”) to the ratio of flame velocities relative to the unburned gas, i.e. Values of (α − 1) are correlated with the Reynolds number based on the wire thickness d, density and viscosity of the unburned gas and flame propagation speed inside the wire mesh. The experiments were repeated with two and three spheres of different diameters, e.g. inner screen 9 cm in diameter and outer screen 18 cm in diameter or three screens, 9, 13.5 and 18 cm, respectively. The second screen usually added a factor of 2 on the value of α. The third screen produced very little additional effect. The highest value of α we ever obtained for mixtures with air was about 12 (for acetylene/air). With oxygen enriched air the situation is quite different. If the flame velocity of the laminar flame relative to the unburned gas exceeds 2 m/sec, the value of α may increase up to a level corresponding to detonation.     

Simultaneous COMPTON GRO and optical monitoring of AGN

During two 14-day periods in January 1992 and March 1992, several AGN which have been in the wide field of view of COMPTEL and EGRET at that time were monitored optically for variations in intensity and polarization. We report on first results of this correlated optical and CGRO observations.     

Laboratory Tests of the Equivalence Principle at the University of Washington

Equivalence principle tests are probes for new fundamental physics. We have conducted several laboratory experiments to test the equivalence principle with unprecedented precision and generality using a torsion balance placed on a continuously rotating turntable. We present preliminary results comparing the differential accelerations of Ti, Be, and Al towards local masses, the earth and the center of our galaxy.     

Strategies for dealing with solar particle events in missions beyond the magnetosphere.

For long duration missions beyond the magnetosphere, the hazards posed by solar particle events (SPE) require the development of new strategies to minimize both the radiation dose and the effects. Potential strategies include the development of improved short-term forecasting of SPE through better observations and research, consideration of HZE particles in real-time forecasting and monitoring, improved knowledge of the biological effects of the particles involved in SPE, and the development of methods for combining SPE forecasts with temporary shielding and chemical countermeasures. Evaluation of present capabilities and the identification of areas of further research to achieve the necessary capabilities are discussed.