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Helping robots handle uncertainty

Researchers develop algorithm to generate lower-level control systems from scratch, solving complex Dec-POMDP models in a reasonable amount of time. The approach decomposes the problem into two graphs, reducing complexity and enabling practical application in robotics.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateJun 3, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

An airflow model to reduce time on the tarmac

A new mathematical tool calculates turbulent air flow produced by plane wing tips, aiding in improved takeoff procedures and reduced delays. The study aims to establish strict separation standards for different aircraft sizes, enhancing aviation safety.

SourceConcordia University·JournalJournal of Aircraft·DateMay 6, 2015

Experts explore the medical safety needs of civilian space travel

The article discusses the need for medical care practices in commercial space transportation, highlighting different phases of suborbital and orbital missions. The authors suggest defining Medical Levels of Care to account for various types of flight, including motion sickness, emergency equipment, and spacesuits.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNew Space·DateJan 14, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Independent safety investigation needed in the NHS

A new agency would investigate major failures and provide public explanation, improving system-wide learning. The NHS lacks a consistent approach to investigating safety issues, relying on costly one-off inquiries.

SourceSAGE·JournalJournal of the Royal Society of Medicine·DateOct 30, 2014

Virginia Tech unmanned aircraft test site 'fully operational,' FAA says

The Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership's Unmanned Aircraft Systems test site program is fully operational and ready to conduct research on integrating unmanned aircraft into the nation's airspace. The partnership has been granted seven Certificates of Waiver or Authorization by the FAA, paving the way for the development of commercial u...

SourceVirginia Tech·DateAug 13, 2014

Law of physics governs airplane evolution

A study by Adrian Bejan explains how the constructal law governs the evolution of passenger jets, from small propeller-driven planes to modern behemoths. The analysis provides insights into successful design features and constraints that dictate airplane performance.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 22, 2014
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Re-routing flights could reduce climate impact, research suggests

Researchers found that aircraft can contribute less to global warming by flying routes that avoid forming distinctive condensation trails, or contrails. By doing so, they emit more carbon dioxide but may have a smaller overall climate impact due to the cooling effect of contrails.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJun 18, 2014

Bacteria can linger on airplane surfaces for days

Research found that disease-causing bacteria like MRSA and E. coli can linger on airplane surfaces for up to a week, surviving environmental conditions and human touch. The study aims to explore effective cleaning and disinfection strategies to reduce the persistence of these pathogens in passenger aircraft cabins.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateMay 20, 2014

Fueling aviation with hardwoods

A multi-university team has developed a technology to transform lignocellulosic biomass into a jet fuel surrogate via catalytic chemistry. The proposed approach could potentially produce aviation fuels at a cost of $2.88 per gallon, making it a promising alternative to traditional petroleum-derived fuels.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMay 8, 2014
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Special topic: Airworthiness and fatigue

The International Conference on Airworthiness and Fatigue explored the importance of energy efficiency in aviation transport, focusing on mechanical, electrical, and chemical effects. Researchers emphasized the need for 'Multiscaling and Mesomechanics' to balance these effects and ensure system stability.

SourceScience China Press·DateDec 25, 2013

Pacific flights create most amount of ozone

A new study reveals that Pacific flights create the most amount of ozone, with the highest sensitivity in an area east of the Solomon Islands. Flights leaving and entering Australia and New Zealand result in the largest ozone production, with some flights producing up to 25,300 kg of ozone.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateSep 4, 2013
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Humans and robots work better together following cross-training

A study by MIT researchers found that cross-training humans and robots significantly improves team performance, with a 71% increase in concurrent motion and a 41% decrease in human inactivity. The robots also showed lower uncertainty levels when working with their human teammates after cross-training.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 11, 2013

New Space -- preview issue of groundbreaking journal launched at FAA Commercial Space Conference

The journal features world-class content on innovative applications of emerging space-based technologies, including commercial cargo and crew services, tourism, colonization, deep space research, and resource utilization. The first issue includes an original article on the B612 Foundation Sentinel Space Telescope and a roundtable discu...

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·JournalNew Space·DateFeb 6, 2013

Even brief interruptions spawn errors

Research at Michigan State University found that even brief interruptions can significantly impact accuracy on complex tasks. The study, which involved 300 participants and a sequence-based procedure, discovered that interruptions lasting just three seconds doubled the error rate. This finding has significant implications for professio...

SourceMichigan State University·DateJan 7, 2013
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

When we forget to remember -- failures in prospective memory range from annoying to lethal

Research on prospective memory reveals that failures occur when we form intentions but lose focus due to interruptions or multitasking. Habital tasks can also lead to implicit intentions, making it harder to remember them. To defend against these failures, professionals use memory tools like checklists and implementation intentions.

SourceAssociation for Psychological Science·JournalCurrent Directions in Psychological Science·DateJul 31, 2012

New study links air pollution and early death in the UK

A new study published in Environmental Science and Technology found that air pollution from cars, trucks, planes, and powerplants cause 13,000 premature deaths in the UK each year. Car exhaust was the single greatest contributor to premature death, affecting over 3,300 people annually.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateApr 19, 2012

A biplane to break the sound barrier

Researchers at MIT have developed a biplane design that can reduce drag by up to half, making it more fuel-efficient and quieter. The design, inspired by Adolf Busemann's work in the 1950s, could potentially cut fuel costs by over half, enabling cheaper supersonic travel.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Aircraft·DateMar 19, 2012
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

2 NASA Goddard engineers receive prestigious award

Two NASA engineers, Diane Elizabeth Pugel and Steven Scott, received achievement awards for their groundbreaking work on the Orion crew vehicle and thermal-protection system. Pugel's non-destructive testing approach for materials evaluation was recognized as a breakthrough in aerospace engineering.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 28, 2011

AIAA to present awards at September conference

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will honor aircraft design, program management, and lifetime achievements through its annual awards. The awards ceremony takes place as part of the 11th AIAA Aviation Technology, Integration, and Operations Conference.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateAug 23, 2011

Sustainable 'bio-derived' jet fuel industry is achievable

A new sustainable aviation fuels industry in Australia and New Zealand could reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 17% and generate over 12,000 jobs. The CSIRO report predicts a reduction in Australia's reliance on imported fossil fuel by $2 billion per annum.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateMay 25, 2011
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

AIAA to present technical awards at June conference in Honolulu

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics will present technical achievement awards at a June conference in Honolulu. Notable recipients include Dr. Hans Hornung, Dr. Chul Park, Preston A. Henne, and Dr. Ramesh Agarwal for their contributions to fluid dynamics, aerodynamics, and thermophysics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateMay 25, 2011

MIT Study: conventional fossil fuels sometimes 'greener' than biofuels

A new MIT study highlights the variability in greenhouse gas emissions from alternative fuels, suggesting that conventional fossil fuels may sometimes be a more environmentally friendly choice. The research found that different types of land used for biofuel production can result in varying levels of carbon dioxide emissions, with some...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMay 11, 2011

Dr. Chin-Teh Sun wins AIAA Chichlow Prize

Dr. Chin-Teh Sun has made significant contributions to the fundamental understanding of impact damage and composite structure failure. He is being honored with the AIAA Chichlow Prize for his groundbreaking research on damage-tolerant design in aerospace materials.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateMar 4, 2011

Shape optimization of curved slots on 3-D surface

A new parametrical mapping method is proposed to shape optimize curved slots on 3D surfaces, reducing stress concentration and improving structural performance. The approach successfully applies to the squirrel-cage elastic support design, achieving valid designs with reduced fatigue risk.

SourceScience China Press·DateNov 29, 2010
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

AIAA Foundation recognizes outstanding educators

The AIAA Foundation presents Educator Achievement Awards to seven precollege educators who have demonstrated exemplary efforts in inspiring students about mathematics, science, and related technical studies. The awards recognize the impact of these educators on their students' future careers in aerospace.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateNov 23, 2010

Louis A. Cassel to receive AIAA Missile Systems Award

Cassel is honored for his sustained technical contributions to missile systems, including hypersonic flight regimes and navigation systems. He developed innovative solutions such as jet interaction in hypersonic flight, aerodynamic control configurations, and optical sensors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateOct 8, 2010
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

AIAA award winners to be honored at conferences in Anaheim

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will honor the winners of AIAA technical and literary achievement awards for their outstanding contributions in space science and technology. The award recipients include Harvey Berger, Michael Gass, STS-125 Team, STPSat-1 Team, Wanda Austin, and J. D. Hunley.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateAug 5, 2010
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

AIAA to present technical achievement awards

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will present technical achievement awards to recognize outstanding contributions in aerospace power systems and energy efficiency. Edward M. Gaddy and Essam Khalil are among the recipients, honored for their work on space photovoltaics and energy-efficient combustors.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJul 8, 2010

AIAA to present awards at 46th Joint Propulsion Conference

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) will present several awards at the 46th Joint Propulsion Conference & Exhibit. These include the AIAA Air Breathing Propulsion Award to Bobby Berrier for his contributions to propulsion airframe integration, and the AIAA Propellants and Combustion Award to David G. Lilley fo...

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJul 6, 2010

World-first study for cleaner aviation fuel

A team of experts has embarked on a groundbreaking project to develop sustainable aviation fuels in Australia and New Zealand. The Sustainable Aviation Fuels Road Map aims to accelerate the development of bio-derived jet fuels that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the aviation sector.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateApr 22, 2010

Jay Hollingsworth Speas Airport Award to be presented

The Planning and Noise Section of Denver International Airport has been honored with the Jay Hollingsworth Speas Airport Award for its exceptional efforts to mitigate noise around the airport. The section's director, Frederick R. Busch, will accept the award at an awards luncheon on February 25.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateFeb 18, 2010
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Aviation-based team training may influence clinicians' safety behaviors

A study on aviation-based team training found that it can increase the use of checklists, self-reporting of patient safety incidents, and perceptions of empowerment among medical staff. The training also appears to change safety-related behaviors, particularly in high-risk areas like surgery.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalArchives of Surgery·DateDec 21, 2009

William T. Carpenter to receive AIAA missile systems management award

William T. Carpenter will receive the AIAA Missile Systems Management Award for his innovative leadership in establishing an environment for creativity in missile system technology. He has advanced several missile and defense systems through his expertise in aerodynamics, guidance, and control systems.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateDec 15, 2009

AIAA announces 2010 Fellows and honorary Fellows

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) has elected 2010 Fellows and Honorary Fellows, recognizing exceptional achievements in aerospace research and development. The 2010 Honorary Fellows are William Heiser, Robert Liebeck, and Sheila Widnall, while the 2010 Fellows include prominent figures in the field.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateDec 14, 2009
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Hidden threat: Elevated pollution levels near regional airports

Research reveals elevated ultrafine particle emissions at regional airports, posing significant health risks to nearby residents. The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology, highlights the need for increased attention to these overlooked emissions.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 18, 2009

Awards to be presented at AIAA Space 2009 Conference and Exposition

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics has announced its honorees for the AIAA Honors and Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements in space automation and robotics, space operations and support, and space systems. The awards will be presented at the AIAA SPACE 2009 Conference and Exposition.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateAug 31, 2009
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Stan Powell to receive 2009 AIAA Ground Testing Award

Dr. Stan Powell will receive the award in Denver on August 5 for his extensive original research and engineering development leading to hypersonic test facilities. His contributions include thermophysics research, modeling of combustion processes, and assessment of simulation fidelity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJul 13, 2009

AIAA to present awards at 45th Joint Propulsion Conference and 7th International Energy Conversion Engineering Conference

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics will honor outstanding achievements in rocket propulsion systems, unsteady combustion, ground testing, and engineering through various awards. The winners include William Sirignano, Vigor Yang, Stan Powell, Frederick Schauer, David McGrath, Suresh Aggarwal, and Cynthia Obringer.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJul 13, 2009

Dr. Charles W. Clendening wins AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Award

Dr. Charles W. Clendening received the 2009 AIAA Plasmadynamics and Lasers Award for his work on scalable high energy chemical oxide-iodine lasers. He has spent over thirty years developing high power laser technology, previously working for the US Air Force and TRW.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJun 15, 2009

AIAA to present 5 awards at June conference

The American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics will present five awards at the 39th AIAA Fluid Dynamics Conference, recognizing outstanding contributions to various fields such as aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, plasmadynamics, thermophysics, and aerospace engineering. The honorees include Jubaraj Sahu, Parvis Moin, Charles Clend...

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJun 12, 2009
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

E. Vincent Zoby wins 2009 AIAA Thermophysics Award

E. Vincent Zoby, a specialist in hypersonic aerothermodynamics, received the award for his work on accurate engineering codes and mentoring of aerospace engineers. He has served on numerous advisory boards and is an AIAA Fellow with over 100 technical papers published.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateJun 12, 2009

Calvin B. Cotner to receive AIAA Aerospace Communications Award

Calvin B. Cotner, a retired COMSAT World Systems director, has received the 2009 AIAA Aerospace Communications Award for his contributions to advancing Earth station technology. He is being honored for his technical and strategic leadership in guiding international cooperation in satellite communications.

SourceAmerican Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics·DateMay 18, 2009