Functionally Graded, Nanocrystalline, Multiphase, Boron-and Carbon-Based Superhard Coatings

Not Available The low-latitude ionosphere is highly variable from day-to-day. The day-to-day weather of the ionosphere and irregularity development impact Over-the-Horizon (OTH) radar applications, RF communication circuits, and L band satellite applications such as GPS and cellular phones. The use of these applications continues to expand, e.g., GPS as an aid to automated aircraft landing systems (WAAS). To date the monitoring and forecasting of ionospheric conditions that affect RF transmissions is either non-existent or based on empiricism. We propose to lay groundwork in Phase I for an innovative packaged system of instruments, models, and interpretive software to both monitor and forecast accurately in a geographic sector the ionosphere and the degree of ionospheric disturbance. The system would provide local monitoring for specification and 30-minute to 2-hour forecasts of signal scintillations. Since the system is deployed locally its output could be directly connected into user applications and hence maintain the forecast lead-time. The deployed sensors are off-the-shelf, and have been primarily developed for DOD applications. These sensors would be linked via INTERNET, where available, or other real-time communication links to a system computer, e.g. a Pentium-based PC. This computer carries out all required data analysis, interpretation, and provides monitoring and forecasting products autonomously.