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Home , Kepler space telescope, PhoneSat

January 2014 - A Quarterly Publication NASA provides about five new rocky by Michele Johnson ranging from that of to that are not represented in our own More than three-quarters of the of , which is nearly four system. Astronomers don’t know how candidates discovered by times as big as Earth. Such planets they form or if they are made of rock, NASA's Kepler spacecraft have sizes dominate the galactic census but or gas. The Kepler team this month re- ports on four years of ground-based follow-up observations targeting Kepler's systems at the American Astronomical Society meet- ing in Washington. These observations confirm the numerous Kepler discover- ies are indeed planets and yield mass measurements of these enigmatic worlds that vary between Earth and Neptune in size. Included in the findings are five new rocky planets ranging in size from ten to eighty percent larger than Earth. Two of the new rocky worlds, dubbed Kepler-99b and Kepler-406b, are both forty percent larger in size than Earth and have a density similar to lead. The planets their host in less than five and three days respectively, making these worlds too hot for life as we know it. Chart of Kepler planet candidates as of January 2014. NASA Image A major component of these follow-up observations were Doppler continued on page 14 NASA’s latest space technology phones home by Rachel Hoover and James Schwab PhoneSat 2.4, NASA's next generation has phoned home. The tiny spacecraft that uses an off-the-shelf smartphone for NASA Ames engineers a brain has completed checkout and are building PhoneSats, sent back data confirming all systems seen here, demonstrat- ing how "off the shelf" are "go" for the spry spacefarer. consumer devices can PhoneSat 2.4, a cube approxi- lead to new space ex- mately four inches square, weighs only ploration capabilities. about 2.2 pounds, and was developed at Ames. It is the first of the PhoneSat family to use a two-way S-band , allowing engineers to command the satellite from Earth. It is confirming the viability of using and other commercially available electron- ics in satellites destined for low-Earth NASA photo by Dominic Hart orbit. "It's great to hear from NASA's Washington. "NASA is committed of small satellites to do and recent cubesat spacecraft," said to opening up the high frontier to a technology development at a fraction Michael Gazarik, NASA's associate new generation of explorers who of the cost of larger, more complex administrator for space technology in can take advantage of these sorts spacecraft." continued on page 11 www..gov Ames researcher receives presidential early career award by Jessica Culler our nation and advance the scientific Engineer and Office of the Chief Tech- On Dec. 23, 2013, President frontiers." nologist. The recipients are: Obama named five NASA research- The 2012 NASA recipients were -- Joshua S. Alwood, at NASA ers, including Joshua S. Alwood nominated by the agency's Science Ames for research into the temporal of Ames as recipients of the 2012 Mission Directorate, Office of the Chief changes in skeletal tissue density, cancellous orientation and vasculature during recovery from musculoskeletal disuse. -- Douglas C. Hofmann, at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasade- na, Calif., for his innovative research in metal-matrix composites for future NASA missions. -- Randall L. McEntaffer, at the NASA photoNASA by Dominic Hart University of Iowa, for development of high resolution and high through- put X-ray gratings for use in the next generation of space-based X-ray spectrometers. -- Tamlin M. Pavelsky, at the University of North Carolina, for outstanding research and leadership advancing satellite remote sensing of river discharge, including enabling the broader community to develop and improve algorithms for SWOT, a future NASA satellite. -- Patrick C. Taylor, at NASA's Joshua Alwood, in the Bone and Signaling Lab at Ames, recipient of the 2012 Presidential in Hamp- Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). He received the award for his ton, Va., for exceptional early career research into the temporal changes in skeletal tissue density, cancellous orientation and achievements and innovations that vasculature during recovery from musculoskeletol disuse. continued on page 13 Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). These recipients, and 97 other federal Holdren addresses Ames employees researchers, will receive their awards in a ceremony early this year in Wash- ington. The PECASE awards represent the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on scientists and engineers beginning their research careers. The award recognizes recipients' exceptional potential for James Eric by photo NASA leadership at the frontiers of scientific knowledge and their commitment to community service as demonstrated through professional leadership, edu- cation or community outreach. "These early career scientists and engineers represent some of the best and brightest talent in our agency and our university partners," said NASA In December 2013, John Holdren, the senior advisor to President Barack Obama on science and Chief Scientist Ellen Stofan. "We are technology issues through his roles as Assistant to the President for Science and Technology, delighted to see them win this pres- Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Co-Chair of the Presi- tigious award. Their contributions, dent’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST), visited Ames. Holdren also was ranging from micro- and space the special speaker for a short town hall-style all hands with Ames staff (Holden is above right dur- radiation effects, X-ray spectrometry, ing the all hands and Ames Center Director S. Pete Worden is on the left). As the principal advisor advanced composites, remote sens- to the President and others within the Executive Office of the President, Holdren’s office advises ing and climate research will benefit on the effects of science and technology on domestic and international affairs.

2 Astrogram January 2014 Ames hosts Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences event in Hangar One NASA Ames established a non- highly regarded scientific and technical tions. Presentations were provided reimbursable Space Act Agreement awards such as the Draper and Na- from supporters and key members of with Breakthrough Prize in Life Sci- tional Academy of Sciences Awards. the technology and sciences com- ences (BPLS) to host an awards NASA is a recognized world leader munity. There also was recognition ceremony at Ames Dec. 12, 2013 in in life sciences and physics with key of the great work being done in the Hangar One. The BPLS is a not-for- contributions being made to the field life sciences and physics community profit corporation dedicated to advanc- by people at NASA Ames. This high- both around the world, at NASA and

Hangar One seen here in brilliant blue. The historic hangar was lit up in an array of colors, courtesy of the event planners and sponsors of the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences event held at Moffett Federal Airfield in December 2013.

NASA photo by Paul Langston ing breakthrough research, celebrating profile event brings well-deserved and at Ames highlighted throughout the distinguished scientists and generating needed attention to the importance of evening. excitement about the pursuit of sci- Science Technology Engineering and BPLS will broadcast the awards ence as a career. Math (STEM) education, which is one ceremony Jan. 27 for the Discovery The BPLS award ceremony, for of the Agency’s primary missions. Channel that will promote life scienc- approximately 350 invited people, The invitation-only event was pro- es, physics and other STEM-related honors achievements in life science duced and directed by the internation- fields to a world-wide audience. and physics and is on par with other ally acclaimed Don Mischer Produc-

Chief Scientist presents all hands NASA photo by Dominic Hart Dominic by photo NASA

In November 2013, NASA Chief Scientist Ellen Stofan presented an all hands at Ames entitled "Looking Outward, Inward and Homeward: The Value of NASA Science." NASA’s investments in science began with the agency’s inception and have evolved into a complex portfolio spanning multiple disciplines and centers. As the principal advisor on the agency's science programs and science-related strategic planning and investments, she shared insights and perspective from the vantage point of the agency’s top leaders.

3 Astrogram January 2014 SOFIA selects educator teams for 2014 science flights by Nick Veronico sadors teams have witnessed SOFIA's Astronomers Association and Fox As- NASA's Stratospheric Observatory world-class astronomical science and tronomical Observatory, Fort Lauder- for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA) will have used this experience in hundreds dale, Fla. become a flying classroom for teach- of science, technology, engineer- Marcella Linahan, Carmel Catholic ers during research flights in the next ing and math teaching opportunities High School, Mundelein, Ill. and Lynne few months. throughout the United States." Zielinski National Space Society, Long Twelve two-person teams have been selected for SOFIA's Airborne Astronomy Ambassadors program, representing educators from 10 states. Airborne Astronomy Each will be paired with a professional Ambassadors (from left astronomer to observe first-hand how to right) Constance Gart- airborne infrared astronomy is con- ner, Vince Washington, ducted. After their flight opportunities, Ira Hardin and Chelen Johnson at the educators’ Airborne Astronomy Ambassadors workstation aboard the will take what they learn back to their SOFIA observatory during classrooms and into their communities a flight in February 2013. to promote science literacy. SOFIA is a highly modified Boeing 747SP jetliner fitted with a 100-inch (2.5-meter) effective diameter tele- scope. The aircraft flies at altitudes photo by Pam Harman

photo by Nick Veronico

Astronomer Jim De Buizer (left) talks to SOFIA Airborne Astronomy Ambassador Marita Beard (foreground) while FORCAST instrument principal investigator Terry Herter explains the images on his computer screen to ambassador Theresa Paulsen during an astronomy flight. between 39,000 and 45,000 feet (12- SOFIA's Airborne Astronomy Am- Grove, Ill. 14 kilometers), above the water vapor bassadors for 2014 are: Judi Little and LeeAnn Vaughan, in the Earth's atmosphere and collects Megan Tucker and Dan Molik, The Burke High School, Omaha, Neb. data in the infrared spectrum. Palmdale Aerospace Academy, Palm- Margaret Holzer, Chatham High "SOFIA offers educator teams dale, Calif. School, Somerset, N.J. and Theresa unprecedented access to infrared as- Barbel Sepulveda, Lincoln High Roelofsen Moody, New Jersey - tronomers and the unique capabilities School and Chris Rauschenfels, Sierra omy Center at Raritan Valley Commu- of an airborne observatory," said John Middle School, Stockton, Calif. nity College, High Bridge, N.J. Gagosian, SOFIA program executive Nathan Mahoney, Pine Crest at NASA Headquarters in Washington. School, Deerfield Beach, Fla. and continued on page 10 "Previous Airborne Astronomy Ambas- Héllen Tavora, South Florida Amateur

4 Astrogram January 2014 NASA brings Earth science 'Big Data' to the Cloud with Amazon Web Services by Ruth Dasso Marlaire "We are excited to grow an eco- gest existing continuous space-based NASA and Amazon Web Services system of researchers and develop- record of Earth's land. Inc. (AWS) of Seattle, Wash., are ers who can help us solve important NASA climate data sets provided making a large collection of NASA cli- environmental research problems," to AWS will continue to be available to mate and Earth science satellite data said Rama Nemani, principal scientist the public in a full and open manner.

Climate change projections for the United States, such as the data shown in this image of average springtime temperature changes by the 2090s, will be available on the cloud through an agree- ment with Amazon Web Services. This data was produced by the NASA Earth Exchange (NEX), a research platform of the NASA Advanced Supercomputer Facility at Ames.

available to research and educational for the NEX project at Ames. "Our goal The effort continues NASA's adoption users through the AWS cloud. is that people can easily gain access of cloud platforms to enhance digital The system enhances research to and use a multitude of data analysis services, enabling NASA to make and educational opportunities for services quickly through AWS to add more U.S. government data easy to the U.S. geoscience community by knowledge and open source tools for find and access without having to promoting community-driven research, others' benefit." download large amounts of data. In innovation and collaboration. NEX is a collaboration and analyti- line with the Obama Administration's "NASA continues to support and cal platform that combines state-of- Open Data Executive Order, this new provide open public access to re- the-art supercomputing, Earth system collaboration encourages citizen entre- search data, and this collaboration is modeling, workflow management and preneurs to create businesses, inno- entirely consistent with that objective," NASA remote-sensing data. Through vate, and conduct scientific research. said NASA Chief Scientist Ellen Stofan NEX, users can explore and analyze The NASA datasets will be avail- at the agency's headquarters in Wash- large Earth science data sets, run and able through the Amazon Public Data ington. "Earth science research is im- share modeling algorithms, collabo- Sets program at: http://aws.amazon. portant to every person on the planet, rate on new or existing projects and com/datasets and we welcome contributions from all exchange workflows and results within This website provides a centralized researchers in improving our under- and among other science communi- repository of selected public data sets standing of Earth and its climate." ties. that can be integrated into AWS cloud- This agreement allows NASA and NASA has uploaded terabytes based applications to reduce the time AWS to experiment with a new way of data from three satellite and com- and cost associated with transferring to provide data services. By using the puter modeling datasets to the AWS large data sets. cloud, research and application users platform and will upload more in the "By bringing these NASA public worldwide gain access to an integrat- future. One data set, the NEX down- data assets into the AWS cloud, we ed Earth science computational and scaled climate simulations, provides help NASA engage a larger commu- data management system they can high-resolution climate change projec- nity for global change impact modeling use on their own. tions for the 48 contiguous U.S. states. and analysis as well as data sciences The service encompasses selected The second data set, provided by the innovation in general," said Jamie Kin- NASA satellite and global change data Moderate Resolution Imaging Spec- ney, AWS senior manager for scientific sets -- including temperature, precipi- troradiometer (MODIS) instrument computing. "Together, NASA and AWS tation, and forest cover -- and data on NASA's Terra and Aqua satellites, are delivering faster time to science processing tools from the NASA Earth offers a global view of Earth's surface and taking the complexity out of ac- Exchange (NEX), a research platform every one to two days. Finally, the cessing this important climate data." of the NASA Advanced Supercom- Landsat data record from the U.S. puter Facility at Ames. Geological Survey provides the lon- 5 Astrogram January 2014 Ames highlights and the at American Geophysical Union NASA Ames researchers presented new findings on a wide range of Earth and space science topics at the annual meeting of the Ameri- can Geophysical Union (AGU) held in December 2013. The meeting took place Dec. 9-13, 2013 at the Moscone Convention Center in San Francisco. NASA's media briefings during the meeting featured topics such as the latest discoveries from Mars and Saturn's Titan, prospects for the recovery of the Antarctic ozone hole, ISON, and close-up views of the sun from a NASA spacecraft launched this year. In addition, NASA scientists and their colleagues who use NASA research capabilities presented noteworthy findings during scientific sessions that were open to registered journalists. John Grunsfeld, Associate Administrator for Science Mission Direc- torate, NASA Headquarters (left lower photo) is seen here speaking at the recent AGU meeting in December.

NASA photos by Eric James

McNally discusses procurement initiatives

NASA's Assistant Administrator for Procurement, Bill McNally, visited Ames in October 2013. He hosted a meeting with the Ames Contractor Council as well as a center town hall for the resident staff. McNally spoke about the need to reduce transaction costs in NASA procurements and other new initiatives in the procurement environment from a NASA Headquarters perspective.

NASA photo by Dominic Hart

6 Astrogram January 2014 Greenleaf receives FLC award for rehydration beverage

John Greenleaf recently received the 2013 Far West Region Federal Labora- tory Consortium (FLC) Award for Outstanding Commercialization Success of his "Rehydration Beverage." The rehydration beverage was developed to help Hart Dominic by photo NASA keep astronauts at peak performance during missions. The beverage was researched, qualified and patented as a highly effective electrolyte concentrate formula that maintains and restores optimal body hydration levels quickly and conveniently. Developed as a remedy for dehydration, it helps prevent the loss of body fluids during heavy exercise, heat exposure and illness. It also can be used to treat and prevent dehydration caused by altitude sickness and jetlag. Greenleaf is seen here, right, holding the FLC award following the recent award ceremony held at Ames.

Ames’ Sustainability Base recognized with Governor’s award

Thirteen California organizations, includ- ing NASA Ames were recognized with the 2013 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leader- ship Award (GEELA), the state’s highest environmental honor from the California Environmental Pro- tection Agency, “for building the first fed- eral facility to receive LEED Platinum rating for new construction.” Features include a graywater reclamation system and an intel- ligent adaptive control system.

NASA photo by Eric James

7 Astrogram January 2014 Center director welcomes back employees post-furlough

photo by Astrid Albaugh

On Oct. 17, 2013, Ames Center Director S. Pete Worden stood at the Ames front gate (above) to personnally and enthusiastically welcome employees back to the center post-furlough. The furlough lasted Oct. 1 - 16, 2013. Worden addressed Ames employees and their questions (left) during the post-furlough all hands Oct. 18 and updated them about the latest information regarding the startup following the furlough.

NASA photo by Dominic Hart

NASA’s Grand Challenge discussed at all hands

In September 2013, Ames employees were invited to listen to NASA's Asteroid Grand Challenge Program Executive Jason Kessler at an all hands meeting at the center. This meeting included a presentation of NASA's Asteroid Grand Challenge followed by a question-and-answer session. Since 1998, NASA's Near Earth Object Observation (NEOO) Program has led the global effort to find potentially hazardous and has successfully found 95 percent of the potentially devastating 1 km wide near-Earth asteroids. More needs to be done; aster- oid impacts and explosions from objects much smaller than 1 km, have the capability of rendering massive devastation. It will take a global effort with innovative solutions to accelerate the search for all of these potentially hazardous asteroids. Earlier this summer, NASA announced the Asteroid Grand Challenge to find all asteroid threats to human populations and know what to do about them. Recognizing the power of traditional and in- novative collaboration - including the use of public private part- nerships, , crowdsourcing and incentive prizes, in addition to international and other cooperative partnerships - NASA will lead a dialogue addressing how to best use these methods to aid in solving this global problem, together.

NASA photo by Dominic Hart

8 Astrogram January 2014 Employees recognized at 2013 Ames Honor Awards ceremony The Ames Honor Awardees Group/Team: Scientist or Researcher: received their awards during a cer- Ames Photo/Video Group Jeffrey M. Moore emony in November 2013, in the Bion-M1 Project Team Syvertson Auditorium. Thanks to Cell Bio Tech Demo Team Special Appreciation: every employee who submitted a Exploration Ground Data Michael T. Downs, Kennedy nomination this year and congratula- Systems (xGDS) Development Space Center tions to these deserving employees. Team Michelle M. Munk, Langley The list of the 2013 Ames Honor IRIS Project Mission Group Research Center Awardees follows: Kepler Spacecraft Operations Marc A. Seibert, Kennedy Team Space Center Administrative Assistant Support/ Millimeter-wave Thermal Launch Secretary: System (MTLS) Team Student: Arelene C. Spencer PhoneSat Team Aileen V. Aniciete Sea Grass/Coral Reef UAV Team Young Sang Park Administrative Professional: SOFIA Observatory Pointing Team Dolores D. Beasley SpaceShop Team Supervisor/Manager: Heather H. Logan Andrew G. Demo Mentor: Best First Paper: Mark A. Beskind Technical Support/Professional: Laura J. Simurda Dean P. Giovannetti Steve Jara Manuel O. Herrada Lauren Nguyen Ladwig Commercialization/Technology John A. Hogan Transfer: William G. Warmbrodt Technician: Michael J. Aftosmis Diane H. Wooden James B. Scott

Contractor Employee: Project Management: Anna Bui Cordrey, Deltha-Critique Nicole A. Rayl Jennifer R. Campbell, Orbital Sciences Corporation Dennis R. Gaskins, ASRC Research & Tech Solutions ADEPT team installs cover on prototype model Michael A. Gross, Universities Space Research Association Donald J. Kalar, San Jose State University Foundation Laura K. Kushner, Aerospace Computing Inc. Lynne H. Martin, San Jose State University Foundation

Duy D. Nguyen, Jacobs photo by EricNASA James Technology Inc. Thoth Nowland, Jacobs Technology Inc. Laura E. Plice, Metis Technology, Inc. Scott Prevost, Computer Sciences Corporation Shawn Seader, SETI Institute Shivanjli Sharma, Stinger Ghaffarian Technologies, Inc. Rosa C. Yancy, Ames Child Care Center

Education and Outreach: Beverly E. Girten In August 2013, the Adaptable, Deployable Entry Placement Technology (ADEPT) team Engineer: installed the cloth cover on an engineering prototype model. The ADEPT concept is a mechani- cally deployable semi-rigid aeroshell entry system capable of achieving low ballistic coefficient Karen L. Gundy-Burlet during entry suitable for a variety of planetary or earth return missions leveraging Ames' exper- Nghia D. Vuong tise in thermal protection system material and entry system design, development and testing.

9 Astrogram January 2014 Astronaut Chris Hadfield converses with MythBuster’s Adam Savage

NASA photoNASA by Dominic Hart

Ames employees were invited to attend an event featuring Colonel Chris Hadfield (right) in an interesting conversation withAdam Savage of MythBusters (left) Nov. 8, 2013 in the Ames Visitor Center. “Good morning, Earth.” That is how Colonel Chris Hadfield—writing on Twitter—woke up the world every day while living aboard the International Space Station for more than five months. Since blasting off from Kazakhstan in December 2012, Hadfield has harnessed the power of social media to make outer space accessible to millions and infusing a sense of wonder into the collec- tive consciousness. Called “the most famous astronaut since Neil Armstrong” by the BBC, Hadfield—now safely back on Earth—continues to bring the of science and space travel to everyone he encounters.

SOFIA selects educator teams for 2014 science flights continued from page 4

Michael Maccarone and Elizabeth Jean Creighton University of Wiscon- Dryden Aircraft Operations Facility in Rosenberger, Avenues: The World sin–Madison, Manfred Olson Plan- Palmdale, Calif. NASA's Dryden Flight School, New York etarium, Milwaukee. Research Center in Edwards, Calif., Tom Jenkins, Dayton Regional "Educators are selected through manages the program. Ames man- STEM Center, Enon, Ohio, and Heidi a rigorous peer-reviewed process for ages the SOFIA science and mission Steinbrink, Oakwood Senior High this yearly professional development operations in cooperation with the School, Springfield, Ohio ," said astronomer Dana Universities Space Research Associa- Robert Black, North Medford High Backman, manager of SOFIA's educa- tion (USRA) in Columbia, Md., and the School, and Dave Bloomsness, South- tion and public outreach programs at German SOFIA Institute (DSI) at the ern Oregon Skywatchers, Medford, NASA Ames. "To date, the Airborne University of Stuttgart. Ore. Astronomy Ambassadors' program has For more information about SOFIA, George Hademenos and Diane flown 15 teams totaling 31 educators visit: http://www.nasa.gov/sofia and Watson, Richardson High School, from 17 states, and we look forward to http://www.dlr.de/en/sofia For informa- Richardson, Texas working with this new cadre of educa- tion about SOFIA's science mission Kim Abegglen and Anna-Melissa tors as they take NASA science into and scientific instruments, visit: http:// Lyons, Hockinson Middle School, Van- their communities." www.sofia.usra.edu and http://www. couver, Wash. SOFIA is a joint project of NASA dsi.uni-stuttgart.de/index.en.html Kathy Gustavson, Nicolet High and the German Aerospace Center School, Whitefish Bay, Wisc., and (DLR). The aircraft is based at the

10 Astrogram January 2014 Bauschlicher discusses computational improvements

On Nov. 19, 2013, Charles Bauschlicher, left, presented the fourth presentation in a series of “Ames Distinguished Employee Lectures presented by the Scientific and Professional (ST) Commu- nity.” His presentation was entitled, “From Computational Chemistry to Computational Materials.” Bauschlicher gave an overview of the computational methods that are used to solve problems of interest to NASA. He discussed the methods used to study large molecules and materials. Several examples were given to illustrate the range of problems that have been studied.

NASA photo by Tom Trower

NASA’s latest space technology small satellite phones home continued from front page In April 2013, NASA successfully cations, navigation and power, all as- space-to-space communications demonstrated a one-week mission sembled in a rugged package before techniques. The eight EDSN satel- with PhoneSat 1.0. With an expected launch. Data from the satellite's sub- lites each will have a smart- orbital lifetime of up to one year, systems, including the smartphone, phone for satellite command and data PhoneSat 2.4 will measure how well the power system and orientation handling, with a scientific instrument commercially developed components control system are being downlinked added as a payload on each space- perform in space over a long period over amateur radio at a frequency of craft. of time. This innovative application of 437.425MHz. During EDSN, each cubesat will commercially developed technologies The next PhoneSat, version 2.5, is make science measurements and for use in space provides for low-cost, scheduled to launch in February 2014, transmit the data to the others while low-risk, highly repetitive missions to hitching a ride aboard a commercial any one of them can then transmit meet some unique NASA science and SpaceX rocket. That spacecraft also all of the collected data to a ground exploration needs. is expected to perform in Earth orbit station. This versatility in command The spacecraft was among 11 for several months and continue test- and control could make possible large agency-sponsored deployed ing the two-way radio and orientation swarms of satellites to affordably Nov.19 by a NASA-built Nanosatel- systems. The PhoneSat Project is monitor Earth's climate, space weather lite Launch Adapter System aboard managed by the Engineering Director- and other global-scale phenomena. an Orbital Sciences 1 rocket ate at Ames. The PhoneSat Project is one of for the U.S. Air Force from the Mid- The PhoneSat series of missions many development projects within Atlantic Regional Spaceport at NASA's are pathfinders for NASA's next Small NASA's Small Spacecraft Technology in Virginia. Spacecraft Technology mission, the Program, one of nine programs within PhoneSat 2.4 also will test a Edison Demonstration of Smallsat NASA's Space Technology Mission Di- system to control the orientation of Networks (EDSN). The EDSN mission rectorate. The Small Spacecraft Tech- the cubesat in space. Like the earlier is composed of eight identical 1.5-unit nology Program develops and matures PhoneSat 1, PhoneSat 2.4 uses a cubesats, which are each approxi- technologies to enhance and expand Nexus S smartphone made by Sam- mately four inches by four inches by the capabilities of small spacecraft, sung Electronics running Google's six inches in size and weighing about with a particular focus on communica- Android operating system. Santa Clara 5.5 pounds, that will be deployed tions, propulsion, pointing, power and University in California is providing the during a launch from Kauai, Hawaii in autonomous operations. ground station for the mission. 2014. For more information about Phone- The smartphone provides many of The EDSN mission will demon- Sat, the Small Spacecraft Technology the functions the satellite needs to op- strate the concept of using many small Program and NASA's Space Technol- erate, such as computation, memory, spacecraft in a coordinated cluster ogy Mission Directorate, visit: http:// ready-made interfaces for communi- to study the space environment and www.nasa.gov/spacetech 11 Astrogram January 2014 Mas Omura, Ames scientist and engineer, passes on Masayuki “Mas” Omura was Mas had three main passions born in San Jose, Feb. 12, 1939. in his life. First and foremost was He passed away Oct. 26, 2013. his family, particularly his grand- He was a 1957 graduate from children, who loved him dearly. Campbell High School and in His second passion was singing. 1962, received his bachelor of He was a member of a Japanese science/master of science from karaoke club for 30 years. He sang MIT in electrical engineering. He in Honolulu, Kobe and Hiroshima, was a member of Eta Kappa Nu, Japan and throughout California Tau Beta Pi 1961. In 1967, Mas photo by Roger Brimmer NASA from San Francisco to Los Ange- received his doctor of philosophy les. Finally, Mas loved to travel. He from Stanford in electrical engi- loved airplanes and boats. After neering. He was known for his retiring from NASA, he traveled to research in shock waves, plasma the Middle East, Asia, Costa Rica, diagnostics, microwave radiometry Mexico and all over Europe. and avionics. He published papers He is survived by his wife Claire on plasma diagnostics and shock (Fujita); daughters Jeanne (James wave precursor. From 1967 to Kim) and Anne (Whitty Somvichian) 1997, Mas worked at NASA Ames. and grandkids Sarah, Mari, Sean, He spent a year at NASA head- Tomiko and Emiko; his mother quarters in Washington, D.C. as Shizuko of Morgan Hill; broth- a program manager for Data Sys- ers Jim and George; and sisters tems in the Guidance Control and Akiko (Dave Kubo) and June (Tom Information Systems Divisions. Crow). Private memorial services Mas retired from NASA in 1997 were held at the Morgan Hill Bud- as the deputy director of Center Masayuki “Mas” Omura dhist Church. In lieu of flowers Operations and had made great very active with the Asian American and koden, please donate to your contributions to many Ames science Pacific Islander Advisory Group (AA- favorite charity. and engineering projects. He also was PIAG) before his retirement.

Darryll Stroud, former Graphics and Exhibits branch chief, dies of San Francisco and graduate of was a member of the Retired United Washington High School, he was Airlines Employee’s Association and a Navy veteran and retired NASA National Active and Retired Federal Ames employee of 34 years, starting Employees Association (NARFE). his career with the National Advisory Daryll and Dorothy travelled exten- Comittee for Aeronautics (NACA) sively to Europe during retirement then NASA, as a technical illustrator and enjoyed many hiking trips in Swit- and branch chief for the Graphics and zerland with friends. Exhibits Branch and merged Publica- Daryll is survived by his wife of tions Branch within the Technical In- 57 years, Dorothy; daughter Diane formation Division, Center Operations (Steve) Haag; son Kenneth Stroud; Directorate. He and his wife, Dorothy, daughter Nancy (Brian) Pantiga; raised three children in Sunnyvale, and six grandchildren: Brian, Sarah, Calif., before retiring to Lake of the Jennifer, Hannah, Taylor and Kyle. A Pines, Calif., in 1990. memorial was held October 2013 at Darryll was active in the Ma- the Eureka Masonic Lodge of Auburn. sonic Lodge (Mountain View), Indian In lieu of flowers, please donate in his Darryll R. Stroud Guides, Eastern (Past Patron) memory to The Shriners Hospital or a and was a volunteer for many years charity of your choice. Darryll R. Stroud, 84, passed at the Sacramento International away Sept. 25, 2013, after a two- Airport, the Sacramento Jazz Festival year battle with cancer. A native and with the Special Olympics. He

12 Astrogram January 2014 Former Ames-Dryden site manager Marty Knutson dies courtesy of NASA Dryden Former research pilot and Dryden site manager Martin A. “Marty” Knut- son passed away Dec. 11, 2013. Best known for flying the Lockheed U-2 prior to and during his NASA career, photo NASA Knutson led the center through the first decade of flight operations and was responsible for obtaining several SR-71 Blackbirds for use as high-altitude, high-speed research platforms. Born May 31, 1930, in St. Louis Park, Minn., he attended the Univer- sity of Minnesota, majoring in electrical engineering. Knutson began his flying career as an Air Force aviation cadet in 1950. Following service in Korea and participation in developmental testing and operational missions in the F-84 and F-86, he was recruited by the Central Intelligence Agency in 1955 to fly the U-2. During his 15-year stint in covert intelligence, he became one of a handful of pilots to overfly the Soviet Union. In 1970, he ended his Martin A. “Marty” Knutson CIA service and retired from the Air Force, having logged more than 6,500 F-15 Digital Electronic Engine Control Flight Operations until his retirement flying hours. project that integrated propulsion and in 1997. At that time, officials at NASA flight controls for greater efficiency; the His awards include the Meritorious Ames were trying to obtain two Pegasus air-launched rocket for plac- Service Medal and the Distinguished U-2C aircraft for the agency’s Earth ing small payloads into low-Earth orbit; Flying Cross, both from the Air Force, resources science program. Carl the CV-990 Landing Systems Re- NASA's Outstanding Leadership Duckett, the CIA’s deputy director for search aircraft, which tested improved Award and the Presidential Rank science and technology, persuaded braking systems for the space shuttle; of Meritorious Executive. He twice Knutson to sign on as project manager and the F-18 High-Alpha Research received the CIA Intelligence Star. He and in 1971 Knutson helped draft an Vehicle. was an Associate Fellow of the Soci- operational plan and made arrange- After the Air Force announced the ety of Experimental Test Pilots and a ments for Lockheed to overhaul two impending retirement of the SR-71, charter member of the federal govern- airplanes that had been in storage. He the only aircraft capable of sustained ment's Senior Executive Service. also served as one of several NASA Mach 3 speeds and cruising flight He is survived by his four children U-2 pilots, and later flew the ER-2, an above 85,000 feet, Knutson success- Marty, Eric, Kristin and Robin; and five updated model that joined the NASA fully sought to acquire three Blackbirds grandchildren Eric, Brandon, Saman- fleet in 1981. for Dryden. In late 1990, he returned tha, Joshua and Natasha. In May 1984, Knutson was ap- to Ames where he served as Chief of pointed Director of Flight Operations for Ames, and was also assigned additional duty as site manager of the Dryden Flight Research Facility, then subordinate to Ames. During the next Researcher receives early career award six years, he maintained the facility continued from page 2 at operational readiness for space shuttle landings, replaced Dryden’s have advanced scientific understand- between fundamental research and aging fleet of F-104 support aircraft ing of the Earth's climate system. many of the grand challenges facing with modern F/A-18 Hornets and The PECASE awards were cre- the nation, and highlight the impor- provided leadership for flight research ated to foster innovative developments tance of science and technology for programs including the X-29 forward- in science and technology, increase America's future. For a complete list swept-wing technology demonstrator; awareness of careers in science of 2012 award winners, visit: http:// the Controlled Impact Demonstration, and engineering, give recognition to www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-of- an intentional crash of a remotely the scientific missions of participat- fice/2013/12/23/president-obama-hon- piloted airliner loaded with an experi- ing agencies, enhance connections ors-outstanding-early-career-scientists mental fire-resistant fuel additive; the

13 Astrogram January 2014 NASA Kepler provides insight about five new rocky planets continued from front page molecules in the envelope surrounding terrestrial globe?" measurements of the planets' host that core vary dramatically, with some The dynamical mass measure- stars. The team measured the reflex having no envelope at all. ments produced by Doppler and TTV wobble of the host star, caused by the The ground-based observation re- analyses will help to answer these gravitational tug on the star exerted search validates 38 new planets, six of questions. The results hint that a by the orbiting planet. That measured which are non-transiting planets only large fraction of planets smaller than wobble reveals the mass of the planet: seen in the Doppler data. The paper 1.5 times the radius of Earth may be the higher the mass of the planet, the detailing the research is published in comprised of the silicates, iron, nickel greater the gravitational tug on the star the Astrophysical Journal. and magnesium that are found in the and hence the greater the wobble. A complementary technique used terrestrial planets here in the solar "This marvelous avalanche of to determine mass, and in turn density system. information about the mini-Neptune of a planet, is by measuring the Armed with this type of informa- planets is telling us about their core- timing variations (TTV). Much like the tion, scientists will be able to turn the envelope structure, not unlike a peach gravitational force of a planet on its fraction of stars harboring Earth-sizes with its pit and fruit," said Geoff Marcy, star, neighboring planets can tug on planets into the fraction of stars har- professor of astronomy at University of one another causing one planet to ac- boring bona-fide rocky planets. And California, Berkeley who led the sum- celerate and another planet to deceler- that's a step closer to finding a habit- mary analysis of the high-precision ate along its orbit. able environment beyond the solar Doppler study. "We now face daunting Ji-Wei Xie of the University of system. questions about how these enigmas Toronto, used TTV to validate 15 pairs Ames is responsible for the Kepler formed and why our is of Kepler planets ranging from Earth- mission concept, ground system devoid of the most populous residents sized to a little larger than Neptune. development, mission operations, and in the galaxy." Xie measured masses of the 30 plan- science data analysis. NASA's Jet Using one of the world's largest ets thereby adding to the compendium Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, ground-based at the W. M. of planetary characteristics for this Calif., managed Kepler mission devel- Keck Observatory in Hawaii, scien- new class of planets. The result also opment. Ball Aerospace & Technolo- tists confirmed 41 of the was published in the Astrophysical gies Corp. in Boulder, Colo., devel- discovered by Kepler and determined Journal in Dec. 2013. oped the Kepler flight system and the masses of 16. With the mass and "Kepler's primary objective is to supports mission operations with the diameter in-hand, scientists could im- determine the prevalence of planets Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space mediately determine the density of the of varying sizes and . Of particu- Physics at the University of Colorado planets, characterizing them as rocky lar interest to the search for life is the in Boulder. The Space Sci- or gaseous, or mixtures of the two. prevalence of Earth-sized planets in ence Institute in archives, These density measurements the habitable zone," said Natalie Bat- hosts and distributes Kepler science dictate the possible chemical composi- alha, Kepler mission scientist at NASA data. Kepler is NASA's 10th Discov- tion of these strange, but ubiquitous Ames. "But the question in the back ery Mission and was funded by the planets. The density measurements of our minds is: are all planets the agency's Science Mission Directorate. suggest that the planets smaller than size of Earth rocky? Might some be For more information about the Neptune – or mini- – have scaled-down versions of icy Neptunes Kepler , visit: http:// a rocky core but the proportions of or steamy water worlds? What fraction www.nasa.gov/kepler hydrogen, helium and hydrogen-rich are recognizable as kin of our rocky, Ames employees enjoy BBQ and Safety Fair/Fun Run

NASA photo by Dominic Hart NASA photo by Jon Pierre Wiens

The Ames Exchange held a barbeque picnic in the fall of 2013 at NACA Park that coincided with the Ames Safety Street Fair and Fun Run Walk and Fitness Challenges. “Safety: It’s in our DNA” was the theme.

14 Astrogram January 2014 Ames Ongoing Monthly Events Calendar Exchange Information Ames Jazz Band Club, Bldg. 944, 5:30 African American Advisory Group (AAAG) Information about products, services and opportuni- Mtg., last Tuesday of each month, 12 - 1 p.m., p.m. - 7 p.m. POC: Ralph Bach, email: ties provided to the employee and contractor com- Bldg. N-255, Rm. 101C. POC: Rose King, ext. [email protected] munity by the Ames Exchange Council. Visit our 4-3442. web site at: http://exchange.arc.nasa.gov Jetstream Toastmasters, Mondays, 12 p.m. Moffett Aikido Club, Monday and Wednes- - 1 p.m., Bldg. N-269, Rm.179. POC: Tim Beyond Gift Shop N-235 in the day evenings, 6:30 p.m., Bldg. 944. Aikido Steiger, ext. 4-0195, [email protected]. cafeteria, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., ext. 4-6873 is a non-competitive, defensive martial art Web: http://jetstream.freetoasthost.com Visitor Center Gift Shop (Exploration known as the “Way of Harmony.” POC: Diane Center), Tues-Fri, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sat. - Pereda (650) 575-9070 or Robert Dean (650) Ames Nimble Knitters Club, every Tuesday Sun, 12 - 4 p.m., ext. 4-5412 787-1007, email: [email protected] at 11:30 a.m., Bldg. N210, Rm. 141. POC: Remember to purchase your baby shower, birthday Rosalyn Jung, [email protected] or Diane and holiday gifts at Ames’ two gift shops! Ames Amateur Radio Club, third Thursday at ext. 4-3140. URL: http://knit.arc. Mega Bites Cafeteria N-235, 6 a.m. to of each month, 12 noon, N-T28 (across from nasa.gov 2 p.m., ext. 4-5969/Catering ext. 4-2161 N-255). POC: George Tucker, at ext. 4-2200. Ames Roller Hockey Club, meets daily Barcelona Café Bldg. 3, 6:30 a.m. to Ames Bluegrass Club, every Tuesday from from noon to 1 p.m. at rink on north end of 2 p.m., ext. 4-4948/Catering ext. 4-4948 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Bldg. 944. Players of all the 80-foot-by-120-foot tunnel. Players instruments and all levels are welcome, but we should have experience skating and must See daily menus at: http://exchange.arc. nasa.gov/cafe/menu.html are particularly interested in experienced play- wear protective equipment. ers willing to help improve the group’s musical Moffett Field Golf Club with ‘Tee minus , third Thursday of skills. POC: Bob Haberle at ext. 4-5494 or Ames Safety Committee One’ Grill and Sports Bar. Catering avail- email: [email protected] each month, 10 a.m. - 11 a.m., Bldg. N-237, able. Call (650) 603-8026. Extended Happy Rm. 200. POC: John Livacich, jlivacich@ Hour Thursdays, $5 and $6 pitchers of beer Ames Bocce Ball Club, Ames’ newest Ex- mail.arc.nasa.gov, ext. 4-3243. starting at 4 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. change-sponsored club is seeking members. POC: Mike Lindsay email: michael.c.lindsay@ Women’s Influence Network (WIN), first RV Lots available. Call to reserve a space at (650) 254-1808. nasa.gov Wednesday of each month, Bldg. N-232, Rm. 227, 12:00 - 1:00 p.m., POC: Wendy Holforty, Civilian/Contractors, $50/mo; military $25/mo Ames Bowling League, Homestead Lanes [email protected] (650) 603-7100 Thursdays at 6 p.m. Need substitute bowl- NASA Lodge (Bldg. 19) ers. Sign up questions: Steve Howard at ext. Orphanage Without Borders Mtg., Mon- Where to stay when you’re too tired to drive home? 4-4884. days, Bldg. 211, Room 205, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 What about the lodge?! Two types of rooms: Bldg. p.m. The mission of Orphanage Without Bor- 19 (43 rooms), rate: $65/night ($5 ea add’l adult); Ames Contractor Council Mtg., first ders (OWB) is to improve the lives of children Bldg. 583 A&B (150 rooms), rate: $55/night ($5 ea. Wednesday of each month, 11 a.m., Bldg. living in orphanages and abandoned children. add’l adult); B547 rate $60/night (for large groups) Our goal is to create a network of organiza- N-200, Committee Room. POC: Herb Finger Ames Swim Center (N-109) (650) 603-8025 at ext. 4-6598. tions that work together to provide children worldwide with the acceptable standards The swimming pool is now open. Hours of operation of life such as education, health, hygiene, are as follows: Ames Federal Employees Union (AFEU) Lap swim only: Mtg, third Wednesday of each month, noon. discipline, affection, responsibility, hope of continued on back page future, shelter, nutrition, clean water, joy and MWF 10 a.m.- 1 p.m. Bldg. N-204, Rm. 101. Guests welcome. MWF 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Check for schedule changes at: http://www. safety. We aim to apply these standards TTH 10 a.m.-1 p.m. afeu.org. POC: Paul K. Davis, ext. 4-5916. universally, meaning that they will be inde- TTH 4 p.m.-7 p.m. The pool is heated year round. pendent of the nationality, religion, culture, The pool normally is available for lap swim, pool Amescontinued Golf Club on, Membersback page have the opportu- race, political opinion or social class of the parties and special events. POC: Ryan Storms, Pool Manager (650) 603-8025. Memberships: nity to play approximately 13 tournaments per children or orphanage location. For additional information contact Miguel at mvcharcos@ single memberships: $60/yr. Family memberships: year at a variety of 18-hole golf courses in the $80/yr. After purchasing a membership, there is an Bay and Monterey Area. POC: Barry Sullivan: orphanagewithoutborders.org or mcharcos@ sofia.usra.edu. entrance fee: daily entrance fee - $3/day or lap pass [email protected]. fee - $50 for 20 uses. Platinum membership - $380/ yr. (no daily fee). Special events: include military Physical Inventory Underway Ames Green Team (formerly the Green Ames training, swim team events, kayak role practice, etc. Working Group) meetings are held the first Ames’ annual 100 percent wall-to-wall physical The cost for special events is $75/hr, or $50/hr for Tuesday of each month in Bldg. N-237, Rm. inventory for NASA tagged, bar-coded property military. 101, from 10-11 a.m. For information, call is proceeding as scheduled. As a reminder, all Roger Ashbaugh, Ames Environmental controlled equipment documented on a NASA Exchange Basketball Gym is now open, Bldg. 2 Form 892 “Employee Property Pass/Loan (650) 603-9717 Management Division, ext. 4-5660. Hours of operation: http://environmentalmanagement.arc.nasa. Agreement and Removal Permit” must have their NF 892 up to date. Employees are en- M-F 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m. gov/reports/eo-13514.html M-F 4 p.m.-7 p.m. couraged to bring in that property for scanning. Chase Park reservations, call ext. 4-4948 The Hispanic Advisory Committee for Property passes are assigned to those people NACA Park reservations, call ext. 4-4948 Excellence (HACE) Mtg., first Thursday of authorized to carry government equipment on each month, 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Bldg. and off . If you have N-255, Rm. 101C. POC: Jeanette Zamora, questions, contact Nelson Japlit at ext. 4-3428. [email protected]. Ames Cat Network The Ames Cat Network needs help finding homes for cats trapped at Moffett. They Ames emergency announcements range from feral to abandoned/lost pets. To hear the centerwide status recording, call (650) 604-9999 for information They are tested, altered and inoculated. Call Iris at ext. 4-5824 if you or someone announcements and emergency instructions for Ames employees. You also you know are interested in fostering or may listen to 1700 KHz AM radio for the same information. adopting a cat.

15 Astrogram January 2014 Wright Brothers’ flight celebrated Protective Services monthly activity On Dec. 17, 2013, A statistical summary of activities of the Protective Ames employees Service Division’s Security/Law Enforcement and Fire were invited to help celebrate the 110th Protection Services units for the three-month period anniversary of the ending December 2013 is shown below. Wright Brothers' Security/Law Enforcement Activity historic flight of the Wright Flyer. Free cake was served in the Mega Bites Café in celebration of the anniversary. Ames Ombuds and Senior Advisor to the Center Director Jack Boyd (right) cut the cake.

Fire Protection Activity

NASA photos by Dominic Hart

FIRST-CLASS U.S. POSTAGE PAID National Aeronautics and Space PERMIT NO. 85 Administration MOUNTAIN VIEW, CA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, CA 94035-1000 Astrogram NP-2014-01-01-ARC

The Ames Astrogram is an official publication of Ames Research Center, National Aeronautics and Space Administration.

Managing Editor...... Donald James Editor, Layout and Design...... Astrid Albaugh Employees can reach the Astrogram Office via email at: [email protected] or by phone at ext. 4-3347. For downloadable pdf copies of each issue, visit the Astrogram website at: PLEASE RECYCLE http://www.nasa.gov/ames/astrogram Printed on recycled and recyclable paper with vegetable-based ink. 16 Astrogram January 2014