ARCHIVES : Home Insulation With the Stroke of a Brush, Issue : 2003, Category: Environment and Resource Management

Home Insulation With the Stroke of a Brush


Issue: 2003
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 48-49
Center: Kennedy Space Center, Ames Research Center
State: FL
Manufacturer: Hy-Tech Thermal Solutions
Origin: NASA Ames Thermal Research



Abstract:

As a manufacturer and marketer of thermal solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, Hy-Tech Thermal Solutions attributes its success to the high performance insulating ceramic microsphere originally developed from NASA thermal research at Ames Research Center. Shaped like a hollow ball so small that it looks as if it is a single grain of flour to the naked eye, the microsphere is non-combustible and fairly chemical-resistant, and has a wall thickness about 1/10 of the sphere diameter, a compressive strength of about 4,000 pounds-per-square-inch, and a softening point of about 1800 degrees Celsius.

Hy-Tech Thermal Solutions improved upon these properties by removing all of the gas inside and creating a vacuum. When these microspheres are combined with other materials, they enhance the thermal resistance of those materials. In bulk, the tiny ceramic "beads" have the appearance of a fine talcum powder. Their inert, non-toxic properties allow them to mix easily into any type of paint, coating, adhesive, masonry, or drywall finish. Additionally, their roundness causes them to behave like ball bearings, rolling upon each other, and letting the coatings flow smoothly.

ARCHIVES : Cleaner Landfills, Issue: 2000, Category: Environment and Resource Management

Cleaner Landfills


Issue: 2000
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 53
Center: Ames Research Center
State: OR
Manufacturer: Osmotek, Inc.
Origin: Water Treatment System for International Space Station


Abstract:

Osmotek, Inc. developed the Direct Osmosis treatment system through SBIR funding from Ames Research Center. Using technology originally developed for flight aboard the Space Station, the company brought it to their commercial water purification treatment system, Direct Osmosis. This water purification system uses a direct osmosis process followed by a reverse osmosis treatment. Because the product extracts water from a waste product, Osmotek is marketing the unit for use in landfills. The system can treat leachate (toxic chemicals leached into a water source), by filtering the water and leaving behind the leahcate. The leachate then becomes solidified into substance that can not seep into water.

ARCHIVES : High-Tech, Low-Temp Insulation, Issue: 1998, Category: Consumer/Home/Recreation

High-Tech, Low-Temp Insulation


Issue1998
Category: Consumer/Home/Recreation
Page: 67
Center: Ames Research Center
State: AZ
Manufacturer: S. D. MILLER & ASSOCIATES
Origin: Lightweight Metal Insulation for Future Reusable Space-plane Reentry


Abstract:
Under an SBIR contract with Ames, S.D. Miller & Associates developed new manufacturing methods for multi-layer metal spacecraft insulation that could significantly reduce launch weight and launch costs. The new honeycomb structure is more efficient than fibers for insulation. Honeycombs can be made from metals for high temperature uses, even plastic insulation from recycled milk bottles. Under development are blankets made from recycled milk bottles which will be field tested by the Red Cross and ambulance companies. Currently available are honeycomb mittens based on the same technology.

ARCHIVE : Innovations in Aircraft Design , Issue: 1997 , Category: Transportation

Innovations in Aircraft Design

Issue: 1997
Category: Transportation
Page: 54
Center: Langley Research Center, Marshall Space Flight Center, Ames Research Center
State: WA
Manufacturer: Boeing Company
Origin: NASA Research Improving Space Shuttle Engines, Mathematical Procedures for Computer-generated Airflow Images, and Digital Fly-by-wire System Utilizing Apollo Technology

Abstract:

The Boeing 777 carries with it basic and applied research, technology, and aerodynamic knowledge honed at several NASA field centers. Several Langley Research Center innovations instrumental to the development of the aircraft include knowledge of how to reduce engine and other noise for passengers and terminal residents, increased use of lightweight aerospace composite structures for increased fuel efficiency and range, and wind tunnel tests confirming the structural integrity of 777 wing-airframe integration. Test results from Marshall Space Flight Center aimed at improving the performance of the Space Shuttle engines led to improvements in the airplane's new, more efficient jet engines. Finally, fostered by Ames Research Center, the Boeing 777 blankets that protect areas of the plane from high temperatures and fire have a lineage to Advanced Flexible Reusable Surface Insulation used on certain areas of the Space Shuttle. According to Boeing Company estimates, the 777 has captured three-quarters of new orders for airplanes in its class since the program was launched.

ARCHIVE : Ocean Observation Instrument, Issue 1983 , Category :Environment and Resource Management

Ocean Observation Instrument


Issue: 1993
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 67
Center: Ames Research Center
State: MI
Manufacturer: DAEDALUS ENTERPRISES, INC.
Origin: NASA Development of a Research Instrument

Abstract:

" A boon to commercial fishing fleet emerged for a NASA development Research Instrument."

The Airborne Ocean Color Imager (AOCI) was developed by Daedalus Enterprises, Inc. for Ames Research Center under a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract as a simulator for an advanced oceanographic satellite instrument. The instrument measures water temperature and detects water color in nine wavelengths. Water color indicates chlorophyll content or phytoplankton. After EOCAP assistance and technical improvements, the AOCI was successfully commercialized by Daedalus Enterprises, Inc. One version provides commercial fishing fleets with information about fish locations, and the other is used for oceanographic research.

ARCHIVE : Archeological and Environmental Research , Issue: 1991, Category: Environment and Resource Management

Archeological/Environmental Research


Issue: 1991
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 88-89
Center: Ames Research Center
State: CA
Manufacturer: Ames Research Center
Origin: Landsat/seasat Programs

Abstract:

Was the decline of Mayan Civilization influenced by environmental change ?

Landsat/Seasat remote sensing was used by Ames Research Center to evaluate environmental influence on ancient Mayan civilization. Over 35 archeological sites were imaged and valuable information concerning Maya settlement patterns, environment, and resource usage resulted. The imagery was also used by Mexican authorities to develop coastal management plans, establish Biosphere Reserves and assess damage from the 1988 Hurricane Gilbert. Imagery showed evidence of ancient coastlines, changes in sea level, an ancient river plain and Mayan canal systems. Previously unknown Mayan reservoirs were discovered. The project is considered a pioneering effort combining remote sensing, environmental studies and archeology.

ARCHIVES : Space Data for Crop Management, Issue: 1990, Category: Environment and Resource Management

Space Data for Crop Management


Issue: 1990
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 62-65
Center: Ames Research Center
State: OR Manufacturer: CROPIX, INC.
Origin: Landsat


Abstract:
CROPIX, Inc., formed in 1984 by Frank Lamb, president of the Eastern Oregon Farming Company, monitors primarily potato crops in a 20,000 square mile area of northern Oregon and central Washington. Potatoes are a high value specialty crop that can be more profitable to the farmer if he has advance knowledge of market conditions, knows when to harvest, and when to take it to market. By processing and collecting data collected by the NASA-developed Landsat Earth Resources survey satellites, Lamb is able to provide accurate information on crop acreage and conditions on a more timely basis than the routine estimates by the USDA. CROPIX uses Landsat data to make acreage estimates of crops, and to calculate a field-by-field vegetative index number. CROPIX then distributes to its customers a booklet containing color-coded maps, an inventory of crops, plus data and graphs on crop conditions and other valuable information.

ARCHIVE : Airborne Imagery , Issue 1983 , Category: Environment and Resource Management

Airborne Imagery

Issue: 1983 Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 122 Center: Ames Research Center
State: MI Manufacturer: DAEDALUS ENTERPRISES, INC.
Origin: Landsat 4

Abstract:
ATM was developed for NSTL by Daedalus Company. It offers expanded capabilities for timely, accurate and cost effective identification of areas with prospecting potential. A related system is TIMS, Thermal Infrared Multispectral Scanner. Originating from Landsat 4, it is also used for agricultural studies, etc.

ARCHIVES : Forest Fire Observation, Issue: 1982 , Category: Environment and Resource Management

Forest Fire Observation


Issue: 1982
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 120
Center: Ames Research Center
State: CA
Manufacturer: Ames Research Center
Origin: Airborne Remote Sensing

Abstract:
Conditions on the perimeter of a forest fire can be obtained by use of airborne remote sensing techniques demonstrated by Ames Research Center. An Ames U-2 high-altitude survey aircraft served as an aerial fire observation system. Equipped with two types of sensors, the U-2 produces real-time infrared images of fireground scenes. Information acquired by the U-2's scanners defines the fire boundary and aids fire management decisions by showing the size, shape and direction of burn and the locations of hot spots in the fire zone. U-2 sends sensor date in digital form to an antenna at Ames Research Center. There the data is computer processed into images which are overlaid on U.S. Geological Survey topographical maps of the fire area. Maps are then transmitted by telecopy machine directly to fire control center. Whole process takes less than 10 minutes and the U-2 can provide information for up to five hours. Ames antenna can pick up signals from the U-2 anywhere within a 300 mile radius from Ames.

ARCHIVES - Window Insulation - Issue: 1979, Category: Environment and Resource Management

Issue: 1979
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 45
Center: Ames Research Center, Dryden Flight Research Center
State: NJ
Manufacturer: STANDARD PACKAGING CORP., NATIONAL METALLIZING DIV
Origin: Echo Communications Satellite, Skylab

Abstract:

Standard Packaging Corp. along with NASA assistance developed nunsun, a thin metallized film adhesively bonded to windows of homes, office buildings, schools, industrial plants and other facilities. The film, originally used in Echo and Skylab, reflects sun's heat and glare outwards thereby cutting down on energy costs for cooling. Trained personnel can affix film to windows of any size in minutes, converting ordinary glass to heat-reflective mirror glass at minimal cost.

ARCHIVES - Carbon Monoxide Detector - Issue: 1976 Category: Environment and Resource Management

Green Spinoffs From NASA Ames

Most people do not realize how much of NASA's research directly benefits the public. Learn about green-related Spinoffs developed from research and technologies at NASA Ames.


Carbon Monoxide Detector


Issue: 1976
Category: Environment and Resource Management
Page: 76
Center: Ames Research Center
State: CA
Manufacturer: Beckman Coulter, Inc.
Origin: Skylab

Abstract:
Beckman Instruments, Inc. has introduced another technical approach to pollution detection which was used aboard skylab. This technique, developed with Ames assistance is known as nondispersive infrared spectroscopy. Previous nondispersive analyzers could not selectively distinguish between water vapor and carbon monoxide, thus necessitating water removal by another device before measurement. These analyzers also were susceptible to vibrations and other problems. New instrument which stimulates fluorescent in two carbon monoxide isotopes in two sealed cells, eliminates these problems and increases sensitivity to a tenth of a part per million.

Learn more about NASA's role in green institutions.

NASA Ames is working hard to reduce its carbon footprint, encourage sustainable institutional practices, and motivate employees to choose environmentally-responsible work and lifestyle habits. Learn more about NASA's role in green institutions.


Sustainability Report

The Environmental Management Division announces the release of the 2009 Ames Environmental Sustainability Report (3.4MB pdf). The report is intended to be the first in an annual series documenting the Center’s accomplishments in working toward Agency and Federal goals for sustainability with an emphasis on Executive Order 13423, Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy, and Transportation Management. The report also provides links to Center efforts in science and technology related to the sustainability.




Buildings

NASA Ames is getting ready to break ground on a revolutionary new high performance building. We also have a "cool roof" building, which uses white reflective foam to keep the building temperatures cool. Some of our buildings have carpets made from recycled bottles. And we include green performance metrics for our building contracts, which require energy efficiency savings over time.




Environmental Management

The Environmental Services Division is actively involved in many voluntary and required environmental management projects, including wildlife habitat protection, salt pond restoration, carbon footprint tracking/management, hazardous waste/chemical management, bioremediation research, and air quality monitoring. The Division is also voluntarily cleaning up past contamination at the Center.




Energy Management

Our Facilities Engineering Branch has a number of energy-related projects, including prototype LED streetlights and solar-powered parking lot lighting. Additionally, we have rooftop solar panels, a windmill that powers our storm management system, and energy-efficient motion sensor lightswitches in some of our buildings.




Energy Efficient Supercomputing

Power consumption and heat dissipation by today's high-end computers are important environmental and cost issues. NASA's Pleiades supercomputer, housed at Ames Research Center, is the fifth most energy-efficient and computationally powerful system in the world.

And, on the Ames green activities at-a-glance page (http://www.nasa.gov/centers/ames/greenspace/at-a-glance.html), please add the following bullets to the Energy Efficient Supercomputing listing:



High-end computing procurement requirements for reduced power usage
Automated methods ensure inactive processors idle at low power
Optimized computer room layout handles heating and cooling efficiently
Transition to use of water-cooled supercomputers for more efficient cooling





Water Conservation

We are partnering with the City of Sunnyvale to use reclaimed water for our irrigation and landscaping requirements on the northeast sector of the campus. This project will cut our water use by 10%. We also have installed low-flow toilets in some of our buildings.




Landscaping

Our Environmental Services Division and Facilities Engineering Branch implemented native plant landscaping. We also maintain an active compost pile, and we've been known to hire goat herds to mow some of our grassy areas at lower emissions and cost than powered mowing.




Recycling

NASA Ames has active programs that recycle paper, batteries, printer cartridges, bottles, cans, cardboard, building material, electronic waste, metal waste, and computers.




Transportation

We have an active commute-alternatives program, particpate in Bike-to-Work-Day, and offer subsidized employee public transportation passes. Additionally, we have compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles and Global Electric Motorcars (GEM) in our motorpool fleet, and use green products to maintain them. We also recycle antifreeze and use recapped tires on our vehicles.




Green Products

Our in-house office supply store carries many green products, including 100% recycled paper. As a Federal Agency, NASA Ames participates in the Affirmative Procurement Program (pdf, 24K), which requires us to purchase items that are made of recycled content. Our cafeteria features green, biodegradable takeaway cups, containers, and cutlery.




Employee Engagement

NASA Ames has a number of activities that are designed to engage our employees in green efforts, including the Annual Earth Day Expo, Sustainability Awards, GREEN seminars, and guest speakers.

NASA To Hold Green Aviation Summit Sept. 8-9 " Leveraging NASA for a greener Earth."

Tue, 20 Aug 2010 15:34:00
NASA will host a Green Aviation Summit Sept. 8-9, 2010 to highlight the agency's work to develop environmentally responsible aviation technologies.


The two-day meeting at NASA's Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, Calif.,

* Registration and more information about the Green Aviation Summit

* Information about aeronautics research at NASA,

* NASA TV downlink, schedule and streaming video information,

Leveraging NASA for a greener Earth.


Beth Dickey
Headquarters, Washington
202-358-2087
beth.dickey-1@nasa.gov

Karen Jenvey
Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, Calif.
650-604-4034
karen.jenvey@nasa.gov

Impacts of climate change in Australia

Mapping climate impacts





Climate change is one of the greatest social, economic and environmental challenges of our time. Human activity is causing the climate to change. This, in turn, is having an impact on Australia's rainfall, temperatures, bushfire frequency, health, heritage and biodiversity for current and future generations.

During the past 100 years, global average surface temperature increased by about 0.7°C. Since 1910 the average temperature of Australia has risen by about 1°C. Although these increases sound small, they have a big impact on the world's climate.

How will I be affected?
It is difficult to precisely predict what the impacts of climate change will be, as they vary with each region. Best estimates are that by 2030 Australia will face:

a further 1ºC of warming in temperatures
up to 20 per cent more months of drought
up to 25 per cent increase in days of very high or extreme fire danger
increases in storm surges and severe weather events.
Australia is very vulnerable to the effects of climate change. We are already the driest inhabited continent on earth, heavily exposed to the dangers of extreme heat and drought. We are home to many globally important and vulnerable ecological systems. Australians are overwhelmingly coastal dwellers. Our industries and urban centres face ongoing water limitations. Our economy, including food production and agriculture, is under threat.

The longer we wait to act on climate change, the more it will cost and the worse its effects will be.

Read more : Australia wide impacts

What the Australian Government is doing : Programs and rebates about Green Loans Program

Important notice - program changes - 8 July 2010
On 8 July 2010, the Minister for the Climate Change and Energy Efficiency announced changes to the Green Loans Program .The Green Loans program will be phased out in the coming months and will transition to a new Green Start grants based program, delivered in two rounds.

A Case Study of the Los Angeles World Airports

The plane truth
CCA report finds high lead levels near airports


Aviation is one of the most energy intensive and polluting modes of transportation. Air pollution emissions from the aviation sector are likely to increase by 140-200 percent by 2025, unless aggressive actions are taken to control and reduce aviation‘s environmental footprint.

"The Plane Truth: Air Quality Impacts of Airport Operations and Strategies for Sustainability" is a case study of the Los Angeles World Airports. It serves as a first step for community advocates to develop a campaign to reduce air pollution from airports in the Los Angeles region. The report also highlight serious air pollution problems that impact thousands of communities across the country.

Among the key findings is the high level of lead emissions from aviation gasoline (avgas), which is used in piston-engine, normally non-commercial aircraft that frequent generation aviation airports. These emissions pose a health risk to approximately 3 million children and 16 million adults who live or attend school near the almost 20,000 U.S. airports frequented by piston-engine aircraft.

CCA and its allies submitted a comment letter on the U.S. EPA’s Proposed Rulemaking on Lead Emissions from Piston-Engine Aircraft Using Leaded Aviation Gasoline. We are tracking this rulemaking process and advocating for measures that will protect communities near airports.

EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) comment Letter. Administrator Lisa P. Jackson Docket ID No. EPA-HQ-OAR-2007-0294

ENERGYAUSTRALIA - The Energy Efficiency Centre hosts free, regular energy saving and sustainability workshops and seminars.

Free Seminar - THE SIXTH WAVE

EnergyAustralia is proud to present Dr James Bradfield Moody discussing his book, The Sixth Wave - how to succeed in a resource-limited world.


Since the Industrial Revolution, the tide of progress has ebbed and flowed: five distinct waves, each starting with new technologies, transforming our industries, societies and economies. The Sixth Wave explores where we are now, on the cusp of another transformation – the sixth wave.

How do we stop our addiction to the consumption of resources? How do we prepare for a world where resources are scarce and increasingly expensive? Where will the next generation of entrepreneurs seek new opportunities for innovation?

Come and hear Dr James Bradfield Moody describe how he foresees 'The Sixth Wave' unfolding.

Attendees will receive a free copy of James Bradfield Moody and Bianca Nogrady’s book The Sixth Wave – how to succeed in a resource-limited world.

When
Saturday 11 September 2010
2-5pm. (Talk from 3pm. Energy Efficiency Centre open for viewing from 2- 5pm)

Where
Energy Efficiency Centre
Homebush Business Village
Unit 12/11-21 Underwood Road, Homebush

Cost
Entry is free. Light refreshments will be provided.

RSVP
Register for this event
For more information email to EnergyAustralia



Call one of our field operations offices:

Muswellbrook 02 6542 9017
Wallsend 02 4951 9930
Central Coast 02 4325 8537
Hornsby 02 9477 8201
Oatley 02 9585 5774


Below are presentations from past events held at the Energy Efficiency Centre.

Please note: A number of these presentations were by guest speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of EnergyAustralia.

SOLAR POWER - Grid Connection Basics
Huon Hoogesteger from LJW Solar presented on the benefits of solar and how to set up a solar system.


27/02/2010 SOLAR POWER - Rooftop solar. The costs and benefits.
Paul Myors of Energy Australia dymystifies the solar panel accreditation scheme, and runs through a buyer's checklist for a solar installation.


27/02/2010 YOUR GREEN DREAM HOME - How you can improve your home.
Caroline Pidcock of Pidcock Architecture & Sustainability presents her ideas on how you can design or renovate your home to minimise your impact on the environment.


28/11/2009 ECO-LIGHTING - The choices for the future
Peter Portelli of Osram Australia presents an overview of the lighting options available now and in the future.


25/10/2009 ECO-LIGHTING - 7 Myths of Compact Flurorescent Lamps
Craig Avery of PlanetArk explores the history of the lightbulb and the impact of lighting options in the future.


25/10/2009 CLEAN ENERGY - Ecologically Sustainable Energy.
Dr Mark Diesendorf of the Institute of Environmental Studies, UNSW, discusses Australia's diverse energy mix and the steps toward a more sustainable energy future.


26/09/2009 CHEAPER AND GREENER - Cheaper and greener. cutting your small business running costs
Australia's leading business and financial commentator Peter Switzer presents an overarching view of Australia in the global financial crisis and offers advice to Small Businesses to help them maintain green credentials and cut costs in these challenging times.

U.S. Department of Energy funds R&D to develop water energy.

Wind and Hydropower Technologies Program




The Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) invests in clean energy technologies that strengthen the economy, protect the environment, and reduce dependence on foreign oil.

End the Addiction to Fossil Fuels

The world cannot afford to wait another year for a comprehensive climate solution. Help us show Washington that we are still serious about clean energy and climate change.


Earth Day Network was founded on the premise that all people, regardless of race, gender, income, or geography, have a moral right to a healthy, sustainable environment. Our mission is to broaden and diversify the environmental movement worldwide.

Go Greener Australia

Why be green?

We're facing a time of great environmental change, and it will affect us all. But concerned people have been working out what to do, and know what the solutions are. It's just a case of making the solutions happen! The links below are to websites that explain various environmental problems and what can be done about them.

If you've found this site useful, you might like to read the Go Greener, Australia blog. It's a regularly updated look at environmental issues and green living in Australia.

Threats to the Australian environment

•Climate change: Find out what climate change is, and how it affects Australia. For more detail, there is also a technical report on the effects of climate change in Australia. Tim Flannery, a prominent Australian scientist (and Australian of the Year for 2007), has written a great book explaining climate change called "The Weather Makers". In it he explains how our climate works, what we've done to change the way it operates, and how that's affecting the world. The website Real Climate is great for keeping up to date with climate change news.

•Biodiversity loss: Australia has many unique plants and animals that are threatened by habitat loss and climate change. Read an article about what biodiversity is, and why it's important. You can also see a map showing biodiversity hotspots around the world. An inspiring read is Douglas Adams' book "Last Chance to See", a funny account of his travels to see endangered animals before they become extinct.
•Water pollution and overuse: Our waterways are becoming polluted with man-made products, while climate change is drying up our already dry country. Learn about water quality in Australia, then read about the threats to our water and what can be done to stop them.


Long-term solutions for Australia and the world



•Sustainable living: this is what this website is all about, how to live sustainably in Australia. Ordinary Australians need to take responsibility for the things we consume in our everyday lives. Reduce, reuse, recycle — it sounds simple, but it can make a big difference to all of us.

•Renewable energy: energy produced from coal, oil and gas is one of the biggest contributors to pollution and climate change. Swapping to energy from renewable sources will greatly help our environment, but it needs support from industry, politicians and consumers. Big business supports nuclear power, which still faces problems with the time to start up, running costs and waste management. We already have hybrid cars, solar panels and wind farms, and these solutions are very well suited to the Australian lifestyle.

•Political action: it'd be nice if all we had to do was install a few low-flow showerheads to save the environment, but sometimes action is needed on a large scale. Politicians need to get informed so they can make it harder to pollute and easier to live greenly. Check your local politician's green policies, and let them know what you expect from them.

•Corporate responsibility: it's not enough for businesses to make a token effort, we want to see them actually make real changes. As consumers and shareholders we need to hold them to their promises, and ask them to make more effort to act responsibly.

•Technological innovation: if we keep doing what we've been doing, we'll keep getting what we've been getting. We need new ideas and new ways of doing things if we're going to change the world! Australia could be a world leader in new technology and methods, which would be great for jobs and the economy as well as the environment.