By Jim Gerard, INSPIRE Education Specialist, KSC, FL
We had a great time with our Live Chat last night, as we finished off the school year with a fun topic: NASA @ the Movies. 41 participants were given an opportunity to have a more conversational chat, commenting on the different movie I selected to illustrate how NASA has been portrayed in film. NASA has been involved in or is featured in over 200 films, so picking the ones to talk about was challenging. To make it easier, I divided films into six categories: NASA in History, NASA as Hero, NASA as Villain, Good to Bad, Just Plain Bad, and Comedy.
I choosing films, there were a few that I purposely left out. A couple students asked me why 2001:A Space Odyssey was not included. As great as this film was, NASA is not mentioned nor was it in an advisory role. You might say the same for October Sky, as NASA was not even in existence at the time the movie is set. The end justifies the inclusion, though, as NASA was the ultimate goal of the young Homer.
You can read through last night’s chat in the Chat Archive on the home page. Checkout the films I selected to highlight and the discussion about them. Then come back and share your comments here for the rest of the community. Did we leave out your favorite film? Let us know in the comments as well.
Don’t forget that the Live Chat will be on hiatus for June as we gear up our Summer Stem Experiences. We will resume on July 1, 2010 at 8:00PM CT for our next Live Chat with some of our summer interns. You will not want to miss it!
Friday, May 28, 2010
Monday, May 24, 2010
5 Tips for Summer Students
By Susan Watanabe, JPL, CA
Every summer, students participate in academic programs at NASA field centers across the country. Most are college or graduate students accepted to a wide range of NASA education programs. These programs also bring in some high school students, postdoctoral candidates and college faculty. We polled current student groups and some advisers for tips to pass along.
1. Network
As students, you are at your NASA center to conduct research projects or work in a summer job. However, you are also here because you probably want to work for NASA some day or pursue an engineering- or science-related career. Take time to meet some of the talented scientists and engineers who make space missions happen. Getting to know people now will help when you apply for your next internship or job. And don't forget to meet the other students -- they may be valuable contacts too.
2. Participate
Don't stay in your assigned lab or cubicle all day. Find out what activities you can attend. There may be lectures or tours. It's all part of the experience.
3. Ask Questions
Scientists and engineers are curious by nature! Ask your mentor or colleagues questions about your job, how NASA works and how they came to work at NASA. Find out what schools they attended and see if those are schools to consider for yourself.
4. Dress Code
Comfortable and casual is the rule at most centers but it is a professional work environment. Use common sense, as first impressions are important. Casual dress is fine, but definitely not beach wear. Also, bring one business outfit if you are required to make a final presentation.
5. Have Fun
NASA is a unique place so have a great time finding out what we do!
1. Network
As students, you are at your NASA center to conduct research projects or work in a summer job. However, you are also here because you probably want to work for NASA some day or pursue an engineering- or science-related career. Take time to meet some of the talented scientists and engineers who make space missions happen. Getting to know people now will help when you apply for your next internship or job. And don't forget to meet the other students -- they may be valuable contacts too.
2. Participate
Don't stay in your assigned lab or cubicle all day. Find out what activities you can attend. There may be lectures or tours. It's all part of the experience.
3. Ask Questions
Scientists and engineers are curious by nature! Ask your mentor or colleagues questions about your job, how NASA works and how they came to work at NASA. Find out what schools they attended and see if those are schools to consider for yourself.
4. Dress Code
Comfortable and casual is the rule at most centers but it is a professional work environment. Use common sense, as first impressions are important. Casual dress is fine, but definitely not beach wear. Also, bring one business outfit if you are required to make a final presentation.
5. Have Fun
NASA is a unique place so have a great time finding out what we do!
Friday, May 21, 2010
Live Chat Roundup: May 20, 2010
By Jim Gerard, INSPIRE Education Specialist, KSC, FL
Who doesn’t enjoy a day at the beach? I remember the first time I took my kids my oldest (age 8 at the time) said, “It was fun, but too salty!” The study of salinity (the measure of dissolved salts in water) will take a giant step next year with the launch of Aquarius. This new ocean observatory will greatly improve our understanding of sea surface salinity.
Last night’s Live Chat featured Dr. Yi Chao, a project scientist from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. In a model of the new meme of social networking, Dr. Chao led his presentation from a downtown LA café, while waiting for his son to finish his cello lesson. This location proved a bit of a challenge, as we had a few disconnects with Dr. Chao. But, we persevered and had a great conversation with 37 OLC members.
If you missed this informative chat, you can find the text and slides in the Chat Archive link on the OLC home page. Dr. Chao wanted me to remind everyone his data website is http://sst.jpl.nasa.gov/SST/ and he can be found under the ‘People’ tab if you have questions.
There were a few questions when Dr. Chao disconnected close to the end of the session, but he has answered them and they appear below. He said he really enjoyed all the questions.
Next week, I will finish our school year season of Live chat with “NASA @ the Movies”. It should be a lot of fun so please plan on joining us. Live Chat will then take a break through the month of June, and then return in July with presentations from our SSE interns.
--------------------
Bonus Questions:
Erin E. asks:
Are there any specific theories or predictions that the science community would like to prove about salinity, or is this more of a fact-finding mission?
Yi Chao answers:
There are two types of objectives for the Aquarius mission. The first objective is about discovery. As you said, this will be a fact-finding mission. In those places where ocean salinity was never measured, Aquarius will find something new and interesting. The second objective is about salinity science, including the global water cycle, the ocean's circulation and its role in climate.
Jonathan R. asks:
What kind of equipment is placed in the oceans to take readings which can work together with the data to be collected by the satellite? What about animals and tracking mechanisms which travel long distances in the ocean waters?
Yi Chao answers:
There are a number of ways of measuring the salinity in the water, including tagging marine animals as you mentioned. The TOPP project (http://www.topp.org/) is just one such examples of tagging animals in the ocean. One can also measure salinity from ships, moored and drifting buoys, and profiling floats. There are 3000+ floats that measure sea surface salinity every 10 days, see the project web site to learn more, http://www.argo.ucsd.edu/. We need these in situ measurement to calibrate the satellite observations, and verify the proposed 0.2 salinity unit accuracy.
Dalton H. asks: Do you think the recent oil spill in the atlantic will affect this great belt current you were speaking of?
Yi Chao answers:
No, the impact of this oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico on the overall circulation is very small. However, the ocean circulation in the Gulf of Mexico, known as the Loop Current, which is part of the Gulf Stream and the great conveyor belt will have a major impact on the spreading patterns of the oil. To have a good understand of the 3D ocean circulation is essential in order to predict where the oil will go and how long does it take to reach to the surface.
Who doesn’t enjoy a day at the beach? I remember the first time I took my kids my oldest (age 8 at the time) said, “It was fun, but too salty!” The study of salinity (the measure of dissolved salts in water) will take a giant step next year with the launch of Aquarius. This new ocean observatory will greatly improve our understanding of sea surface salinity.
Last night’s Live Chat featured Dr. Yi Chao, a project scientist from the Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California. In a model of the new meme of social networking, Dr. Chao led his presentation from a downtown LA café, while waiting for his son to finish his cello lesson. This location proved a bit of a challenge, as we had a few disconnects with Dr. Chao. But, we persevered and had a great conversation with 37 OLC members.
If you missed this informative chat, you can find the text and slides in the Chat Archive link on the OLC home page. Dr. Chao wanted me to remind everyone his data website is http://sst.jpl.nasa.gov/SST/ and he can be found under the ‘People’ tab if you have questions.
There were a few questions when Dr. Chao disconnected close to the end of the session, but he has answered them and they appear below. He said he really enjoyed all the questions.
Next week, I will finish our school year season of Live chat with “NASA @ the Movies”. It should be a lot of fun so please plan on joining us. Live Chat will then take a break through the month of June, and then return in July with presentations from our SSE interns.
--------------------
Bonus Questions:
Erin E. asks:
Are there any specific theories or predictions that the science community would like to prove about salinity, or is this more of a fact-finding mission?
Yi Chao answers:
There are two types of objectives for the Aquarius mission. The first objective is about discovery. As you said, this will be a fact-finding mission. In those places where ocean salinity was never measured, Aquarius will find something new and interesting. The second objective is about salinity science, including the global water cycle, the ocean's circulation and its role in climate.
Jonathan R. asks:
What kind of equipment is placed in the oceans to take readings which can work together with the data to be collected by the satellite? What about animals and tracking mechanisms which travel long distances in the ocean waters?
Yi Chao answers:
There are a number of ways of measuring the salinity in the water, including tagging marine animals as you mentioned. The TOPP project (http://www.topp.org/) is just one such examples of tagging animals in the ocean. One can also measure salinity from ships, moored and drifting buoys, and profiling floats. There are 3000+ floats that measure sea surface salinity every 10 days, see the project web site to learn more, http://www.argo.ucsd.edu/. We need these in situ measurement to calibrate the satellite observations, and verify the proposed 0.2 salinity unit accuracy.
Dalton H. asks: Do you think the recent oil spill in the atlantic will affect this great belt current you were speaking of?
Yi Chao answers:
No, the impact of this oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico on the overall circulation is very small. However, the ocean circulation in the Gulf of Mexico, known as the Loop Current, which is part of the Gulf Stream and the great conveyor belt will have a major impact on the spreading patterns of the oil. To have a good understand of the 3D ocean circulation is essential in order to predict where the oil will go and how long does it take to reach to the surface.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
My World Exploded With Possibilities
By Stephany D., Hendersonville, TN
Mr. Billy Butterworth stood in front of our brand-new Magnet School Robotics Team during one of our first meetings. “Who here knows what they want to be when they grow up?” he asked. Amid the mumbling and nervous glances, one small, pale, and very conspicuous hand shot up. All eyes turned to me and I said, shyly, “I want to be an aerospace engineer.”
I got a bunch of blank stares, of course. But Mr. Billy still tells that story to anyone who will listen. I impressed him that day, and he and all the other Robotics Club mentors have been very supportive. But I have Mrs. Kay to thank for giving me the best opportunity of all – INSPIRE.
“Stephany, I found some great opportunities for you to look at,” she emailed me one day. “Take a look at the second link, the application is due pretty soon!” And that link was, of course, for the NASA INSPIRE Online Community. I wasn’t a very proactive person at that point, but I went ahead and filled out that one application, at my parent’s urging. Looking back, it seems as if my world exploded with possibilities once I got accepted. I still reference one of my first LiveChats, about the Hubble Telescope, in daily conversation. In fact, most people who know me know that I’ll be busy every Thursday night with “that NASA stuff.” I was constantly awed and amazed by the things I learned on INSPIRE. I was even more awed when I was accepted for the STEM Summer Experience – in Puerto Rico! Those two weeks easily made last summer the best ever. I made great friends and learned so much. I’ll never forget standing underneath the world’s largest radio telescope, splashing in a bioluminescent bay, and building fractals out of post-it notes…and shoving them all in people’s backpacks. For that matter, who could forget getting stung by jellyfish, eating plantains for two weeks straight, and hearing “Should I Stay or Should I Go” karaoked in two languages at once by a bus full of NASA geeks? But more than anything, that trip taught me about myself. I’ve never been more surprised than when I tied with Abby for the leadership award. Everyone else found it perfectly natural, but I was dumbfounded. Me, a leader? Sure, I did ok when Mr. Billy volunteered me for pit manager during the Robotics competition. But there had been no competitions those two weeks – well, unless you count our impromptu robot battles. Anyway, the SSE truly inspired me. It made me more confident in myself and what I could do. I was even brave enough to run for Vice-President of the Robotics club this year.
And, I won.
Mr. Billy Butterworth stood in front of our brand-new Magnet School Robotics Team during one of our first meetings. “Who here knows what they want to be when they grow up?” he asked. Amid the mumbling and nervous glances, one small, pale, and very conspicuous hand shot up. All eyes turned to me and I said, shyly, “I want to be an aerospace engineer.”
I got a bunch of blank stares, of course. But Mr. Billy still tells that story to anyone who will listen. I impressed him that day, and he and all the other Robotics Club mentors have been very supportive. But I have Mrs. Kay to thank for giving me the best opportunity of all – INSPIRE.
“Stephany, I found some great opportunities for you to look at,” she emailed me one day. “Take a look at the second link, the application is due pretty soon!” And that link was, of course, for the NASA INSPIRE Online Community. I wasn’t a very proactive person at that point, but I went ahead and filled out that one application, at my parent’s urging. Looking back, it seems as if my world exploded with possibilities once I got accepted. I still reference one of my first LiveChats, about the Hubble Telescope, in daily conversation. In fact, most people who know me know that I’ll be busy every Thursday night with “that NASA stuff.” I was constantly awed and amazed by the things I learned on INSPIRE. I was even more awed when I was accepted for the STEM Summer Experience – in Puerto Rico! Those two weeks easily made last summer the best ever. I made great friends and learned so much. I’ll never forget standing underneath the world’s largest radio telescope, splashing in a bioluminescent bay, and building fractals out of post-it notes…and shoving them all in people’s backpacks. For that matter, who could forget getting stung by jellyfish, eating plantains for two weeks straight, and hearing “Should I Stay or Should I Go” karaoked in two languages at once by a bus full of NASA geeks? But more than anything, that trip taught me about myself. I’ve never been more surprised than when I tied with Abby for the leadership award. Everyone else found it perfectly natural, but I was dumbfounded. Me, a leader? Sure, I did ok when Mr. Billy volunteered me for pit manager during the Robotics competition. But there had been no competitions those two weeks – well, unless you count our impromptu robot battles. Anyway, the SSE truly inspired me. It made me more confident in myself and what I could do. I was even brave enough to run for Vice-President of the Robotics club this year.
And, I won.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Live Chat Roundup: May 13, 2010
By Jim Gerard, INSPIRE Education Specialist, KSC, FL
What a busy week at KSC last week! As most of you know, Friday saw the last launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis. After this flight, Atlantis will be 'safed', meaning it will have all hazardous materials removed and cleaned so that Atlantis may be placed on display. This question, among others, was asked of our Live Chat presenter, Garry Liveway. Mr. Liveway is a young engineer working for Boeing, one of KSC's principal contractors. His main responsibility is the thermal protection sysytem.
Mr. Livesay gave students who had logged in for the evening an update on the current flight of Atlantis. He also talked about his recent path to finding an engineering occupation at NASA. He stressed that, even though his position will go away with the final flight of the shuttle, there is still lots of work to do and he is excited about his future opportunities. You can read the archive of the evening by clicking the 'Chat Archive' link on the OLC home page.
BONUS QUESTIONS
A few questions were not able to be answered during the evening, but Mr. Livesay has provided the answers here.
Erin E. says:
As an astronaut hopeful, are you looking for short or long duration missions? Would you be interested in going to the Moon, Mars, or asteroids?
Garry Livesay says:
Becoming an astronaut is something I've thought about for a long time now, and likewise, something I've talked about with my family on numerous occasions. While long missions would take me away from my family longer, it is something we are prepared for. As for destination, that isn't as important to me as what I will be doing on the way, and when we arrive at our destination.
Mary K. says:
Do you think it is better to go to the same college through your doctorate degree? Also, which engineering field requires the strongest background in mathematics? Thanks :)
Garry Livesay says:
The advice I had been given when I was considering the same thing is that experiencing more than one institution is beneficial. Each institution has their own way of learning and approaching problems, and by earning different degrees from different institutions, you also learn the there is more than one school of thought, so to speak. As for the strongest engineering field in mathematics, having only experienced Aerospace Engineering, it's really the only field I can vouch for, and I started down that path with basic Algebra and Calculus at the end of high school.
Kathryn B. says:
Other than for display purposes, why can't the retired shuttles be taken apart?
Garry Livesay says:
I'm guessing taking apart the shuttles would require significant amounts of machinery, technicians, and engineers that are unlikely to be found at each final destination of the shuttles. Also, taking them apart would also require the removal of the Thermal Protection System that encases each vehicle. When you consider these two large-scale procedures taking place at KSC, and once again at the final destination, the costs of the overall operation increases significantly, as does the risk of damaging the vehicles.
Peter V. says:
I understood that you received a research grant through your professor to work on a NASA experiment regarding fluids in micogravity conditions. Was this through a USRP grant and how were you chosen for this great opportunity over other students in your class? Was it difficult to attain this grant or internship opportunity?
Garry Livesay says:
My professors/advisors worked to earn a number of research grants from multiple foundations for our research efforts over the year-and-a-half I was involved with the project. As for the USRP, I don't know if they were involved, as I was not involved in the procurement of funding. I do know, however, that NASA was funding our efforts, and worked with their counterparts on a few occasions, as well as submitted updates and reports to them directly. I believe it was more of a process of my professors submitting the original proposal to NASA, after NASA made the public request for universities to compete for the research opportunity.
As for being chosen for the opportunity to lead the research team: I asked for it. It wasn't very difficult at all. :)
What a busy week at KSC last week! As most of you know, Friday saw the last launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis. After this flight, Atlantis will be 'safed', meaning it will have all hazardous materials removed and cleaned so that Atlantis may be placed on display. This question, among others, was asked of our Live Chat presenter, Garry Liveway. Mr. Liveway is a young engineer working for Boeing, one of KSC's principal contractors. His main responsibility is the thermal protection sysytem.
Mr. Livesay gave students who had logged in for the evening an update on the current flight of Atlantis. He also talked about his recent path to finding an engineering occupation at NASA. He stressed that, even though his position will go away with the final flight of the shuttle, there is still lots of work to do and he is excited about his future opportunities. You can read the archive of the evening by clicking the 'Chat Archive' link on the OLC home page.
BONUS QUESTIONS
A few questions were not able to be answered during the evening, but Mr. Livesay has provided the answers here.
Erin E. says:
As an astronaut hopeful, are you looking for short or long duration missions? Would you be interested in going to the Moon, Mars, or asteroids?
Garry Livesay says:
Becoming an astronaut is something I've thought about for a long time now, and likewise, something I've talked about with my family on numerous occasions. While long missions would take me away from my family longer, it is something we are prepared for. As for destination, that isn't as important to me as what I will be doing on the way, and when we arrive at our destination.
Mary K. says:
Do you think it is better to go to the same college through your doctorate degree? Also, which engineering field requires the strongest background in mathematics? Thanks :)
Garry Livesay says:
The advice I had been given when I was considering the same thing is that experiencing more than one institution is beneficial. Each institution has their own way of learning and approaching problems, and by earning different degrees from different institutions, you also learn the there is more than one school of thought, so to speak. As for the strongest engineering field in mathematics, having only experienced Aerospace Engineering, it's really the only field I can vouch for, and I started down that path with basic Algebra and Calculus at the end of high school.
Kathryn B. says:
Other than for display purposes, why can't the retired shuttles be taken apart?
Garry Livesay says:
I'm guessing taking apart the shuttles would require significant amounts of machinery, technicians, and engineers that are unlikely to be found at each final destination of the shuttles. Also, taking them apart would also require the removal of the Thermal Protection System that encases each vehicle. When you consider these two large-scale procedures taking place at KSC, and once again at the final destination, the costs of the overall operation increases significantly, as does the risk of damaging the vehicles.
Peter V. says:
I understood that you received a research grant through your professor to work on a NASA experiment regarding fluids in micogravity conditions. Was this through a USRP grant and how were you chosen for this great opportunity over other students in your class? Was it difficult to attain this grant or internship opportunity?
Garry Livesay says:
My professors/advisors worked to earn a number of research grants from multiple foundations for our research efforts over the year-and-a-half I was involved with the project. As for the USRP, I don't know if they were involved, as I was not involved in the procurement of funding. I do know, however, that NASA was funding our efforts, and worked with their counterparts on a few occasions, as well as submitted updates and reports to them directly. I believe it was more of a process of my professors submitting the original proposal to NASA, after NASA made the public request for universities to compete for the research opportunity.
As for being chosen for the opportunity to lead the research team: I asked for it. It wasn't very difficult at all. :)
Thursday, May 13, 2010
INSPIRE - A Lifetime Experience
By Nathasha M., Puerto Rico
I still remember the day I learned about NASA INSPIRE. The decision I took that day changed my life. It was a Friday afternoon, I was looking into NASA Opportunities for High School Students and I saw this wonderful program called NASA INSPIRE. I was searching for a challenging experience focused on what I love, STEM. I talked with my parents about it and decided to apply. Now I know that I did not have a clue about what INSPIRE really is. INSPIRE is not only a program; it has been a lifetime experience for me.
I have always liked NASA and I have always been interested in working at NASA, but never as much as I am now. My experience during the Online Learning Community has opened my mind to new perspectives and ideas. I got to meet wonderful students with the same interests I have that now I can say are my friends. I have learned how much opportunities I have with NASA and I have had the chance to work on other NASA Projects and competences with students from the OLC, but one of the things that has encouraged me the most is meeting NASA professionals with wonderful life stories that have really INSPIREd me. I cannot leave the Summer STEM Experience behind. I do not think I will ever be able to forget NASA INSPIRE SSE at Kennedy Space Center. As a ninth grade student I had the pleasure of a VIP tour around the Kennedy Space Center. I am still surprised by the work done there and all the branches of STEM that are essential for NASA to achieve its goal. I did not imagine the laboratories were extremely amazing. There are no words to describe it; you have to see it for yourself. Now I am more capable to deal directly with STEM related problems. I am able to analyze and look for solutions faster. I have really acquired lots of knowledge. I am part of many STEM organizations at school and I have created a big impact on many students in my community thanks to abilities I have developed at INSPIRE.
Before NASA INSPIRE I saw working for NASA as a very far goal, but now I feel that dream closer every day. I do not get tired of inviting my friends to join NASA INSPIRE, so all of you that have the opportunity of being here enjoy it! Through NASA INSPIRE I have been able to motivate other students to get interested in STEM and they plan on applying to the program next year. I am very proud of saying that I am part of the best program I have ever been at: NASA INSPIRE.
I am very grateful of this opportunity. Thanks!
I still remember the day I learned about NASA INSPIRE. The decision I took that day changed my life. It was a Friday afternoon, I was looking into NASA Opportunities for High School Students and I saw this wonderful program called NASA INSPIRE. I was searching for a challenging experience focused on what I love, STEM. I talked with my parents about it and decided to apply. Now I know that I did not have a clue about what INSPIRE really is. INSPIRE is not only a program; it has been a lifetime experience for me.
I have always liked NASA and I have always been interested in working at NASA, but never as much as I am now. My experience during the Online Learning Community has opened my mind to new perspectives and ideas. I got to meet wonderful students with the same interests I have that now I can say are my friends. I have learned how much opportunities I have with NASA and I have had the chance to work on other NASA Projects and competences with students from the OLC, but one of the things that has encouraged me the most is meeting NASA professionals with wonderful life stories that have really INSPIREd me. I cannot leave the Summer STEM Experience behind. I do not think I will ever be able to forget NASA INSPIRE SSE at Kennedy Space Center. As a ninth grade student I had the pleasure of a VIP tour around the Kennedy Space Center. I am still surprised by the work done there and all the branches of STEM that are essential for NASA to achieve its goal. I did not imagine the laboratories were extremely amazing. There are no words to describe it; you have to see it for yourself. Now I am more capable to deal directly with STEM related problems. I am able to analyze and look for solutions faster. I have really acquired lots of knowledge. I am part of many STEM organizations at school and I have created a big impact on many students in my community thanks to abilities I have developed at INSPIRE.
Before NASA INSPIRE I saw working for NASA as a very far goal, but now I feel that dream closer every day. I do not get tired of inviting my friends to join NASA INSPIRE, so all of you that have the opportunity of being here enjoy it! Through NASA INSPIRE I have been able to motivate other students to get interested in STEM and they plan on applying to the program next year. I am very proud of saying that I am part of the best program I have ever been at: NASA INSPIRE.
I am very grateful of this opportunity. Thanks!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Past, Present, Future and Beyond
By Yves Lamothe, Engineer, Kennedy Space Center, FL
Based on history, the 20th century has undoubtedly had the most progressions in technology than any other time. Before the 1900s we had things such as the battery, arc lamps, electromagnets, typewriters, revolvers, antiseptics, and much more. So then came the age of industrial revolution and 19th Century Science. Early in the 1900s came the Wright brothers airplane, light bulbs, Albert Einstein’s E=mc2, helicopters, robots, 3D movies, traffic signals, Polaroid Photography, jet engines, the photocopier and much more and we are still only in the 1930s.
Within a few decades after that, we find ourselves in an era where test flights and research are performed to develop ways to explore beyond the earth’s atmosphere. Looking at NASA’s history, in the past 50 years, we developed technology that landed a man on the moon and brought him back home safely; we designed and built an International Space Station in low earth orbit; we have launched satellites and robots into deep space to perform scientific experiments; we have telescopes that can bring to life distant galaxies, and much more. Today NASA is working on new technologies that will help do those things even better.
All of these inventions and innovations of the past are great, but the key is that they set the foundation for the future. As an example, there was a time when a cell phone was carried in something the size of a brief case, could only make a few phone calls before the battery would die, was limited to one cell area and the connection would be lost once it was out of range. Today, you can control many aspects of your life with a cell phone. Parents can use them to locate their kids, you can browse the internet or make dinner reservations or order pizza, and you can log into your home security system, or even use it to pop the trunk of your car. If we can do those things today, imagine what we will be able to do in the future?
The future lies in the hands of all the students who study to become proficient in science, technology, engineering and math. We need the young people of today to not only develop innovative ideas, but also to continue to be a driving force in the evolution of technology for our future and beyond. Every new generation builds upon the foundation set by the previous generation, which opens the doors to endless opportunities. There is no other place today that is like NASA. I am proud to be part of a team that can truly capitalize on our accomplishments, develop groundbreaking technologies, expand our horizons, and make the world a better and more exciting place.
Based on history, the 20th century has undoubtedly had the most progressions in technology than any other time. Before the 1900s we had things such as the battery, arc lamps, electromagnets, typewriters, revolvers, antiseptics, and much more. So then came the age of industrial revolution and 19th Century Science. Early in the 1900s came the Wright brothers airplane, light bulbs, Albert Einstein’s E=mc2, helicopters, robots, 3D movies, traffic signals, Polaroid Photography, jet engines, the photocopier and much more and we are still only in the 1930s.
Within a few decades after that, we find ourselves in an era where test flights and research are performed to develop ways to explore beyond the earth’s atmosphere. Looking at NASA’s history, in the past 50 years, we developed technology that landed a man on the moon and brought him back home safely; we designed and built an International Space Station in low earth orbit; we have launched satellites and robots into deep space to perform scientific experiments; we have telescopes that can bring to life distant galaxies, and much more. Today NASA is working on new technologies that will help do those things even better.
All of these inventions and innovations of the past are great, but the key is that they set the foundation for the future. As an example, there was a time when a cell phone was carried in something the size of a brief case, could only make a few phone calls before the battery would die, was limited to one cell area and the connection would be lost once it was out of range. Today, you can control many aspects of your life with a cell phone. Parents can use them to locate their kids, you can browse the internet or make dinner reservations or order pizza, and you can log into your home security system, or even use it to pop the trunk of your car. If we can do those things today, imagine what we will be able to do in the future?
The future lies in the hands of all the students who study to become proficient in science, technology, engineering and math. We need the young people of today to not only develop innovative ideas, but also to continue to be a driving force in the evolution of technology for our future and beyond. Every new generation builds upon the foundation set by the previous generation, which opens the doors to endless opportunities. There is no other place today that is like NASA. I am proud to be part of a team that can truly capitalize on our accomplishments, develop groundbreaking technologies, expand our horizons, and make the world a better and more exciting place.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Live Chat Roundup: May 6, 2010
By Jim Gerard, INSPIRE Education Specialist, KSC, FL
Are you ready for a flying car? This vehicle has been predicted by many as the mode of transportation of the 21st Century, from “The Jetsons” to “Back to the Future”. But is it feasible? Can it work in today’s transportation infrastructure?
Mark Moore, an aerospace engineer from Langley Research Center, Va., seems to think so. He was our guest on last night’s Live Chat, where the 32 students who logged in were brought up to speed on the technology currently being developed to make this happen. The goal is to increase the viable traveling distance for a typical commute to workplace by 4X, with a magnitude (10x) increase in safety. Electric powered air vehicles will offer a quieter, cleaner and safer method than today’s small aircraft. Plus a Haptic intelligence (about as smart as a horse) would help keep the pilot from veering off course, and, if the pilot becomes disabled, can find it’s way back to ‘the barn’.
We had so many great questions we did not have enough time to finish them. Below are some ‘bonus questions’ that Mr. Moore answered after the chat. And remember, the full chat can be found under the Chat Archive link on the OLC Home Page.
Next week: The final launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis. Speaking to us will be Sarah Schilling a Vehicle Processing Engineer who knows Atlantis well. She’ll talk a little of Atlantis’ storied career, as well as what it takes to make her fly. Next Thursday, May 13, at 8:00PM CT! Be there!
Vanessa M. asks: A person must first get a license through the Federal Aviation Administration, and also have certain amount of flying hours. If driving a car must take a lot of responsibly and even certain number of driver's ed classes (and counting that it is the most common way of transportation), how efficient will the process be in determining who is eligible to safely conduce a PAV?
Mark Moore answers: Actually you can fly an Ultralight aircraft without any FAA licensing (for either the pilot or vehicle) – so it really depends on the size and speed (and risk) of the vehicle. Light Sport Aircraft have minimal licensing and regulations also. I foresee the potential to make flying as easy as driving a car, through such technologies as the Haptic control system. This system doesn’t take away the driver’s ability to provide ‘intent’ like in an automobile, but it would take out the complexity of 3D flight, while keeping the pilot in the loop.
Joshua B. asks: Who was the inventor of the Puffin? And what does the age have to be to fly the Puffin? And thank-you for the presentation! It was great.
Mark Moore answers: I am, but with the help of many talented and bright individuals from MIT, Georgia Tech, the National Institute of Aerospace, and Mdot Aerospace. The Puffin only exists right now as a 1/3-size demonstrator, as we test transition characteristics for flight from hover to forward flight and back to hover. Once regulations are in place for such aircraft as the Puffin to fly, I would imagine that it would be similar to sailplanes and small aircraft, which is 14 and 16 years old.
Joshua S. asks: will there be police to watch the people driving because when ever a new vehicle comes out or even with older ones whether it is a car truck atv or even a plane there is all ways going to be people that will see how fast they can go or what kind of tricks they can do and with personal air vehicles the can put them selves others in extreme danger so what do you all plan on doing to prevent this
Mark Moore answers: The nice thing about these aircraft is that all the control is digital (along with the airspace data) – so ‘police’ could monitor the skies by watching the data from each aircraft (as every aircraft would constantly be sending it’s position from a transponder (as most aircraft do already, but to a much greater degree in order to predict any potential cross-overs for collision avoidance). Built into the flight control system would be ‘limitations’ that restrict certain behavior from the pilot, with the amount of restrictions depending on how comfortable we become with the vehicle autonomy. These restrictions would prevent controlled flight into the terrain, and other obvious operator error. But speeding would no longer be a problem – you could go as fast as your aircraft permitted! (With speed separation based on the altitude that you’re flying)
Caitlin G. asks: Was the marine AV8B aircraft part of the inspiration for creating a PAV?
Mark Moore answers: Actually it goes back even further to an aircraft called the “Flying Flapjack” or V-173 and XF5-U that were developed by a man named Zimmerman (back in the 1950’s at NASA). It also was a ‘Tailsitter’ aircraft developed to takeoff and land vertically (and with a very similar configuration as the Puffin). But it was mechanically complex, with gearboxes all over the place (which adds weight and decreases reliability). The really cool thing about the Puffin powertrain (motor system) is that it is completely redundant – so up to any 4 parts of either engine system can fail, and the engine can still produce full power. The AV8-B is the only operational powered-lift aircraft (the V-22 is a rotorcraft), and if you’ve ever seen it (I mean heard it) – it is a screaming banshee. The Puffin is 10x quieter than the quietest helicopter, so it could takeoff and land close to residences and businesses without causing any disturbance.
Are you ready for a flying car? This vehicle has been predicted by many as the mode of transportation of the 21st Century, from “The Jetsons” to “Back to the Future”. But is it feasible? Can it work in today’s transportation infrastructure?
Mark Moore, an aerospace engineer from Langley Research Center, Va., seems to think so. He was our guest on last night’s Live Chat, where the 32 students who logged in were brought up to speed on the technology currently being developed to make this happen. The goal is to increase the viable traveling distance for a typical commute to workplace by 4X, with a magnitude (10x) increase in safety. Electric powered air vehicles will offer a quieter, cleaner and safer method than today’s small aircraft. Plus a Haptic intelligence (about as smart as a horse) would help keep the pilot from veering off course, and, if the pilot becomes disabled, can find it’s way back to ‘the barn’.
We had so many great questions we did not have enough time to finish them. Below are some ‘bonus questions’ that Mr. Moore answered after the chat. And remember, the full chat can be found under the Chat Archive link on the OLC Home Page.
Next week: The final launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis. Speaking to us will be Sarah Schilling a Vehicle Processing Engineer who knows Atlantis well. She’ll talk a little of Atlantis’ storied career, as well as what it takes to make her fly. Next Thursday, May 13, at 8:00PM CT! Be there!
Vanessa M. asks: A person must first get a license through the Federal Aviation Administration, and also have certain amount of flying hours. If driving a car must take a lot of responsibly and even certain number of driver's ed classes (and counting that it is the most common way of transportation), how efficient will the process be in determining who is eligible to safely conduce a PAV?
Mark Moore answers: Actually you can fly an Ultralight aircraft without any FAA licensing (for either the pilot or vehicle) – so it really depends on the size and speed (and risk) of the vehicle. Light Sport Aircraft have minimal licensing and regulations also. I foresee the potential to make flying as easy as driving a car, through such technologies as the Haptic control system. This system doesn’t take away the driver’s ability to provide ‘intent’ like in an automobile, but it would take out the complexity of 3D flight, while keeping the pilot in the loop.
Joshua B. asks: Who was the inventor of the Puffin? And what does the age have to be to fly the Puffin? And thank-you for the presentation! It was great.
Mark Moore answers: I am, but with the help of many talented and bright individuals from MIT, Georgia Tech, the National Institute of Aerospace, and Mdot Aerospace. The Puffin only exists right now as a 1/3-size demonstrator, as we test transition characteristics for flight from hover to forward flight and back to hover. Once regulations are in place for such aircraft as the Puffin to fly, I would imagine that it would be similar to sailplanes and small aircraft, which is 14 and 16 years old.
Joshua S. asks: will there be police to watch the people driving because when ever a new vehicle comes out or even with older ones whether it is a car truck atv or even a plane there is all ways going to be people that will see how fast they can go or what kind of tricks they can do and with personal air vehicles the can put them selves others in extreme danger so what do you all plan on doing to prevent this
Mark Moore answers: The nice thing about these aircraft is that all the control is digital (along with the airspace data) – so ‘police’ could monitor the skies by watching the data from each aircraft (as every aircraft would constantly be sending it’s position from a transponder (as most aircraft do already, but to a much greater degree in order to predict any potential cross-overs for collision avoidance). Built into the flight control system would be ‘limitations’ that restrict certain behavior from the pilot, with the amount of restrictions depending on how comfortable we become with the vehicle autonomy. These restrictions would prevent controlled flight into the terrain, and other obvious operator error. But speeding would no longer be a problem – you could go as fast as your aircraft permitted! (With speed separation based on the altitude that you’re flying)
Caitlin G. asks: Was the marine AV8B aircraft part of the inspiration for creating a PAV?
Mark Moore answers: Actually it goes back even further to an aircraft called the “Flying Flapjack” or V-173 and XF5-U that were developed by a man named Zimmerman (back in the 1950’s at NASA). It also was a ‘Tailsitter’ aircraft developed to takeoff and land vertically (and with a very similar configuration as the Puffin). But it was mechanically complex, with gearboxes all over the place (which adds weight and decreases reliability). The really cool thing about the Puffin powertrain (motor system) is that it is completely redundant – so up to any 4 parts of either engine system can fail, and the engine can still produce full power. The AV8-B is the only operational powered-lift aircraft (the V-22 is a rotorcraft), and if you’ve ever seen it (I mean heard it) – it is a screaming banshee. The Puffin is 10x quieter than the quietest helicopter, so it could takeoff and land close to residences and businesses without causing any disturbance.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Rising to the Occasion - Pad Abort 1
By Brent Cobleigh, Director, Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, NASA Dryden Flight Research Center
I know that there is a perception in the general public about the traditional government worker who has no incentive or desire to work hard. I haven’t found too many of those people working at NASA, and there certainly aren’t any of them on the Orion Abort Flight Test Project. On an average day NASA Dryden has 30 to 50 people, stationed at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, preparing for the big event: the first test launch of the Orion Abort Flight Test system.
Our team is joined by the Flight Test management team from the NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX), engineers and technicians from the NASA Langley Research Center (Hampton, VA), support personnel from the NASA White Sands Test Facility (Las Cruces, NM), safety personnel from the NASA Kennedy Space Center, and numerous contractors including prime contractor Lockheed Martin.
One of the biggest issues for managers has been trying to decide when to “throttle back” this incredible team to keep them from overworking themselves. Anytime you have a dangerous work environment and high-value flight hardware, we enforce work-hour limitations designed to keep people and one-of-a-kind test hardware safe. It’s always a tough balance between the can-do attitude of our team and the need to keep everyone safe.
And safety is key, since we are getting close to igniting a half million pounds of solid rocket thrust that will pull the 31,600-pound Launch Abort Vehicle (which is comprised of the crew module and the launch abort system) to an altitude of about one mile. Two other, smaller solid rockets will be used to steer the test article and then jettison the launch abort system from the crew module before three enormous parachutes inflate to slow the crew module to a survivable descent rate prior to landing (see animated video http://www.dfrc.nasa.gov/Gallery/Movie/Orion/HTML/EM-0099-08.html).
During the past three months our combined test team has been completing final component installations and integrated system checks. Just last week, the team completed a mission rehearsal to verify the functionality of every element that will be used on launch day: from the crew completing pre-launch procedures, to chilling the solid rockets to proper temperatures, to full staffing of the mobile control room, to power-up of every telemetry antenna, radar and tracking camera, to launch of weather balloons and more. This test has helped us iron out the details of the day-of-flight checklists in preparation for the Pad Abort 1 launch.
So as we all follow the progress of this on NASA-TV and the NASA website, let's not forget the people behind the projects.... I am proud to support an exceptional team of technicians, mechanics, engineers and many other mission support staff that are about to write that next chapter in American space history.
I know that there is a perception in the general public about the traditional government worker who has no incentive or desire to work hard. I haven’t found too many of those people working at NASA, and there certainly aren’t any of them on the Orion Abort Flight Test Project. On an average day NASA Dryden has 30 to 50 people, stationed at the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, preparing for the big event: the first test launch of the Orion Abort Flight Test system. Our team is joined by the Flight Test management team from the NASA Johnson Space Center (Houston, TX), engineers and technicians from the NASA Langley Research Center (Hampton, VA), support personnel from the NASA White Sands Test Facility (Las Cruces, NM), safety personnel from the NASA Kennedy Space Center, and numerous contractors including prime contractor Lockheed Martin.
One of the biggest issues for managers has been trying to decide when to “throttle back” this incredible team to keep them from overworking themselves. Anytime you have a dangerous work environment and high-value flight hardware, we enforce work-hour limitations designed to keep people and one-of-a-kind test hardware safe. It’s always a tough balance between the can-do attitude of our team and the need to keep everyone safe.
And safety is key, since we are getting close to igniting a half million pounds of solid rocket thrust that will pull the 31,600-pound Launch Abort Vehicle (which is comprised of the crew module and the launch abort system) to an altitude of about one mile. Two other, smaller solid rockets will be used to steer the test article and then jettison the launch abort system from the crew module before three enormous parachutes inflate to slow the crew module to a survivable descent rate prior to landing (see animated video http://www.dfrc.nasa.gov/Gallery/Movie/Orion/HTML/EM-0099-08.html).
During the past three months our combined test team has been completing final component installations and integrated system checks. Just last week, the team completed a mission rehearsal to verify the functionality of every element that will be used on launch day: from the crew completing pre-launch procedures, to chilling the solid rockets to proper temperatures, to full staffing of the mobile control room, to power-up of every telemetry antenna, radar and tracking camera, to launch of weather balloons and more. This test has helped us iron out the details of the day-of-flight checklists in preparation for the Pad Abort 1 launch.
So as we all follow the progress of this on NASA-TV and the NASA website, let's not forget the people behind the projects.... I am proud to support an exceptional team of technicians, mechanics, engineers and many other mission support staff that are about to write that next chapter in American space history.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
The 2010 Field Testing Season Begins!
By Rocky Lind, Information and Communications Coordinator, NASA Headquarters
If you are reading this Blog, then you have an interest in what NASA is doing in preparation for sending humans into deep space to explore, work and live.
Throughout the North American continent and beyond, we have teams conducting what are called “analog field tests.” The simple definition of the word analog is “something similar or relating to,” which means we are testing in locations that we have found to be similar or related to the surfaces we expect to encounter on other planets or asteroids.
Believe it or not, this testing has been around since the Apollo days and now we are taking it to the next level.
We have teams testing and training next generation vehicles and life systems in the arctic deserts and lakes of Canada; deep beneath the surface of the ocean near the Florida Keys; on the side of a dormant volcano in Hawaii; and in the dry, dusty deserts of Arizona. Read more about the teams at http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/analogs/.
Each team has a different mission profile but they are all working to better prepare for long-duration spaceflight and long-term stays on surfaces remote and distant from Mother Earth.
Our goal is to give you a close and personal look at each of these tests as they happen and help you connect the dots in what we think is a pretty cool story. From time to time, different members of different teams will post here so don’t be surprised to see a post from an engineer on the side of a volcano followed by a post from an educator in the desert where we test rovers. It could be any of us!
The first analog field test of 2010 began on May 1 with the Sea Ice Traverse. The test is being conducted at Haughton-Mars Project Research Station (HMPRS) on Devon Island, Canada. The high arctic outpost is on the world’s largest uninhabited island. The team faces a challenging journey across 200 km of frigid, snow-covered arctic barrens, including the critical 35 km crossing of rough sea-ice filling the Wellington Channel.
That’s it for now. More posts to come (and a few below from our previous Desert RATs blog) and plenty more ways of keeping up with our teams at http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/analogs/.
If you are reading this Blog, then you have an interest in what NASA is doing in preparation for sending humans into deep space to explore, work and live.
Believe it or not, this testing has been around since the Apollo days and now we are taking it to the next level.
We have teams testing and training next generation vehicles and life systems in the arctic deserts and lakes of Canada; deep beneath the surface of the ocean near the Florida Keys; on the side of a dormant volcano in Hawaii; and in the dry, dusty deserts of Arizona. Read more about the teams at http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/analogs/.
Each team has a different mission profile but they are all working to better prepare for long-duration spaceflight and long-term stays on surfaces remote and distant from Mother Earth.
Our goal is to give you a close and personal look at each of these tests as they happen and help you connect the dots in what we think is a pretty cool story. From time to time, different members of different teams will post here so don’t be surprised to see a post from an engineer on the side of a volcano followed by a post from an educator in the desert where we test rovers. It could be any of us!
The first analog field test of 2010 began on May 1 with the Sea Ice Traverse. The test is being conducted at Haughton-Mars Project Research Station (HMPRS) on Devon Island, Canada. The high arctic outpost is on the world’s largest uninhabited island. The team faces a challenging journey across 200 km of frigid, snow-covered arctic barrens, including the critical 35 km crossing of rough sea-ice filling the Wellington Channel.
That’s it for now. More posts to come (and a few below from our previous Desert RATs blog) and plenty more ways of keeping up with our teams at http://www.nasa.gov/exploration/analogs/.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Solar Team Captain
By Axel B., Puerto Rico
Through this experience I have achieved more knowledge in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. My favorite part of this program was when I made the laboratories and activities with people from different countries. It will prepare me to make anything about STEM fields at school. Also, I have developed leadership and several organizations at my school and community. I was able to designed a website which is http://tutorias3nmat3maticas.wordpress.com/ that provides free tutoring for students in areas of mathematics. I am the captain of our school's solar team, where we deal with engineering projects that use energy, such as the construction of a solar car. Through this opportunity many students have been interested in STEM fields. So, this year they will apply to the Online Learning Community.
Last summer I participated in the NASA INSPIRE collegiate experience at University of Puerto Rico. There I worked on biotechnology research where as INSPIRE students I had the opportunity to carry out a biotechnology project in the laboratory of Dr. Oscar N. Ruiz, Interamerican University at Bayamón. We were able to produce bio-ethanol from yeast over a period of time, which could then be used as fuel for various motors. Later, we also conducted an experiment in which we altered the DNA structure of bacterial e-coli. The e-coli was shot with a gene gun, centrifuged, and then put through gel electrophoresis so that the altered DNA could be more closely examine.
I would like to be an aerospace engineer and I want to become the next Puerto Rican in space. My goals in engineering are the STEM field where I want to develop more. It is my last year in this program and I will not forget these experiences. This program has offered me the best experience that I will achieve.
Thanks, NASA INSPIRE PROGRAM!
Through this experience I have achieved more knowledge in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields. My favorite part of this program was when I made the laboratories and activities with people from different countries. It will prepare me to make anything about STEM fields at school. Also, I have developed leadership and several organizations at my school and community. I was able to designed a website which is http://tutorias3nmat3maticas.wordpress.com/ that provides free tutoring for students in areas of mathematics. I am the captain of our school's solar team, where we deal with engineering projects that use energy, such as the construction of a solar car. Through this opportunity many students have been interested in STEM fields. So, this year they will apply to the Online Learning Community.
Last summer I participated in the NASA INSPIRE collegiate experience at University of Puerto Rico. There I worked on biotechnology research where as INSPIRE students I had the opportunity to carry out a biotechnology project in the laboratory of Dr. Oscar N. Ruiz, Interamerican University at Bayamón. We were able to produce bio-ethanol from yeast over a period of time, which could then be used as fuel for various motors. Later, we also conducted an experiment in which we altered the DNA structure of bacterial e-coli. The e-coli was shot with a gene gun, centrifuged, and then put through gel electrophoresis so that the altered DNA could be more closely examine.
I would like to be an aerospace engineer and I want to become the next Puerto Rican in space. My goals in engineering are the STEM field where I want to develop more. It is my last year in this program and I will not forget these experiences. This program has offered me the best experience that I will achieve.
Thanks, NASA INSPIRE PROGRAM!
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