A Fast-Response Atmospheric Turbulence (FRAT) Probe with Gas-Sampling Ducts, Phase I

The objective of this proposal is to design, construct and test a high-frequency-response air-data probe, the Fast Response Atmospheric Turbulence probe (FRAT probe) that will be able to operate in harsh and humid atmospheric environments. Both requirements, high-frequency response and resistance to water spray can be accommodated by mounting the pressure sensors flush with the probe surface. We will also conduct research on how gas-ingesting ducts can be incorporated in the design without interference with the measuring capabilities of the probe, and we will provide for the incorporation of Anasphere's CO2 sensor. In the first phase of this effort, we will also explore the market for sensors to measure humidity and other physical quantities recommended by NASA and NOAA that can be incorporated in the base of the air-data probe. Accelerometers, magnetometers, GPS, a computer and other electronic equipment will be included to estimate the rigid-body motion of the platform carrying the probe, and then calculate velocity components with respect to an inertial frame. The final product will be the preliminary design of a stand-alone piece of instrumentation, available for mounting on a platform to measure atmospheric turbulence and the fluxes of different species and thermodynamic quantities. More »