Dynamics of the middle atmosphere

Space Science Reviews - It is demonstrated by means of model calculations that while the general configuration of middle atmosphere dynamics (i.e., winter westerlies and summer easterlies) is...     

Scientific literacy and attitudes towards American space exploration among college undergraduates

One hundred fifty-five college undergraduates from Syracuse University were surveyed to assess the relationship between their scientific literacy and attitudes to US space exploration. The students were divided into four sections based on majors: basic sciences (n = 41), health sciences (n = 29), political science (n = 36) and other (n = 49). As a whole the students had high scientific knowledge and overall support for human space exploration. There was a significant correlation (rho = 0.33, P < 0.01) between the dependent variables, suggesting that those with the highest scientific literacy looked more favorably upon US space exploration. When evaluated by college major, significant correlations were evident for political science and health science majors only (P < 0.05). There were no differences in scientific literacy scores between males and females and among the various college majors (P > 0.05). Attitudes towards US space exploration varied by sex only, indicating that males were more supportive than females (P < 0.05). These data suggest that individuals with adequate scientific literacy tend to look more favorably upon space exploration. Further research should be done to assess these factors in other populations, as well as to develop strategies to improve scientific literacy and shape positive attitudes towards space exploration in the US population.     

Future trends in space photovoltaics

The Air Force, NASA, NRL and the commercial sector are all using small spacecraft to a greater extent in order to provide more cost-effective access to space. This paper discusses the generic photovoltaic technologies which are being studied and/or developed to support these smaller spacecraft, and identifies several specific examples. The unique requirements of these mission types include lower power arrays, arrays with lower mass and stowed volume which will be more compatible with small launch vehicles, and power systems with lower fabrication costs     

Remote Sensing: The Next 50 Years

Remote sensing is viewed as a complete system for observing and managing man's environment on Earth. The sensing portion of the system consists of space, air, and ground observing platforms, sensors, communications, computational capabilities and interpretation, and recognition algorithms. The data are put to use using environmental models, geographic information systems, and management models. Progress and potentials in each of these system elements are reviewed and projected. Existing and potential uses are sketched and certain institutional, diplomatic, and national security issues are identified. Some underlying reasons for belief in continued progress are mentioned and the need for certain crucial choices in the future stated which will determine which of a number of possible futures will be realized.