Selected projects

Carried out scientific research at the NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center; collaborated with the Dynamics Explorer (DE) Science Team, other Goddard and university scientists to analyze the DE and Voyager particle, wave and field data; performed interpretation of the space plasma data and theoretical modeling of planetary magnetospheric phenomena and plasma processes.

Studied the spectral characteristics and the energization of particle precipitations in the auroral zones, wave-particle interaction processes along the auroral magnetic field lines, the frequency-time structure and the generation of the terrestrial VLF emissions, the detection and location of the auroral parallel electric fields, finite geometry effects of field-aligned currents, the auroral current-voltage relationship, and the global electrodynamics of the ionosphere-magnetosphere system.

Analyzed and interpreted the DE and Voyager data on radio emissions from the terrestrial and planetary (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune) magnetospheres; studied the generations and the emission characteristics in terms of nonlinear wave-wave interactions and the electron cyclotron maser instabilities; performed ray-tracing calculations to study the effects of propagation of radiation in a plasma.

Performed feasibility study and the physics of a space-based or lunar-based magnetospheric radio sounder used to remotely sense the different plasma regimes of the magnetosphere.

On the Dynamics Explorer (DE) and Voyager Projects, perform various magnetospheric and ionospheric data analyses, supervise the Summary Plot microfiche quality control process, and produced many papers and presentations. Create variety of programs for magnetospheric modeling, data analysis and display, including raytracing to determine potential source locations and primary propagation modes for striated spectral activity measured by DE and Voyager at the Earth, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune. Developed and constructed an intensified CCD camera system. Prepared and operated ground observing stations in northern Canada and South America for chemical release experiments from sounding rockets, Pegasus Pegsat, and Combined Release and Radiation Effects Satellite (CRRES). Developed and constructed a low-light level charge-coupled device (CCD) camera system and operated it on CRRES missions. In the past, correlated ground station magnetic field data, IMP and ISEE interplanetary magnetic field data, and DE field and particle data for magnetically quiet times. For the annual DE attitude maneuvers that ensure sufficient power and cooling, prepared predictions of the angle between the spacecraft spin axis and the local magnetic field. Researched and produced the UserŐs Guide for Dynamics Explorer Summary Plots of selected geophysical parameters measured by high and low altitude satellite instruments for use by researchers investigating magnetosphere-ionosphere-atmosphere coupling. Created a metaprogram that wrote Postscript code for overlaying satellite on-times onto the AE Indices plots.

Developed papers on future gamma-ray spectroscopy instruments, including the Nuclear Astrophysics Explorer Phase A study and a lunar spectrometer initiative.

Investigated future portable communications systems for NASA Headquarters.

On the Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking (SARSAT) Program, perform a number of systems engineering and documentation tasks. Evaluated the system measurements of the COSPAS/SARSAT system, investigated issues related to personal survival beacons, and explored other techniques for locating distress victims. Created a database of the COSPAS/ SARSAT saves with the capability for plotting saves locations on world maps. Prepared a schematic of the SARSAT spacecraft instrument layout with command and telemetry points. Built the interface hardware for a possible spacecraft interferometer and ran antenna tests in the GSFC Antenna Test Facility. Planned and analyzed the 1985 and 1986 COSPAS/SARSAT system exercises, studied emergency beacon capacity and detection probability, researched the overall SARSAT system and the data exchange networks and protocols involved. Acted as executive secretary at many SARSAT meetings, including the London 1986 Operations Working Group meeting. Wrote and illustrated COSPAS/SARSAT System Description, 406 MHz Implementation Plan, COSPAS/SARSAT User's Guide Chapter 5, Interim Operations Plan, RDDC Implementation Plan, COSPAS/SARSAT Implementation Plan, 406 MHz Beacon Signal Flow and Processing Tutorial, SARSAT Interface Control Document for the Command Management and Telemetry Processing of the SARR, SARP, and SARP- M, SARSAT Local User Terminal (LUT) Requirements Initiative, and 406 MHz Geosynchronous SAR Implementation Plan.

Researched imaging polarimeters and explored the present use of the frequency band 1330-1427 MHz to determine possible interference with passive soil moisture measurements of the proposed Earth Observing System (EOS) HMMR phased-array antenna.

For the SHAD instrument, developed the procedures and laid-out the test bench for integrating and testing the telescope.

Researched the equipment required for outfitting the Life Science Module of the Space Station and constructed a full-size mock-up.

Researched and proposed designs to extend the mission lifetime of the Spartan spacecraft for use in global magnetic field measurements, including engineering and cost analyses.

Helped develop the GOES-Next Specification, Statement of Work, Documentation Requirements, and Request for Proposal, including design and cost analyses.

Researched and analyzed industrial capacity for the test, measuring and analytical instruments industries, particularly the electrical measurement and optics instrument producers, for use by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.