Space construction system analysis. Part 2: Cost and programmatics

Cost and programmatic elements of the space construction systems analysis study are discussed. The programmatic aspects of the ETVP program define a comprehensive plan for the development of a space platform, the construction system, and the space shuttle operations/logistics requirements. The cost analysis identified significant items of cost on ETVP development, ground, and flight segments, and detailed the items of space construction equipment and operations

Estimation and Identification of Structural Parameters in the Presence of Multiple Equilibria

This paper studies quantitative implications of model economies that exhibit multiple equilibria. The goal is to assess two interrelated issues. First, do economies with multiple equilibria have falsifiable predictions? Second, is the identification of structural parameters possible in economies that exhibit multiple equilibria? We raise these questions within a general framework and then study a series of examples to determine how the existing literature has addressed them. These examples illustrate cases in which parameters can be identified and models falsified.

Life considerations of the shuttle orbiter densified-tile thermal protection system

The Shuttle orbiter themal protection system (TPS) incorporates ceramic reusable surface insulation tiles bonded to the orbiter substructure through a strain isolation pad. Densification of the bonding surface of the tiles increases the static strength of the tiles. The densification proces does not, however, necessarily lead to an equivalent increase in fatigue strength. Investigation of the expected lifetime of densified tile TPS under both sinusoidal loading and random loading simulating flight conditions indicates that the strain isolation pads are the weakest components of the TPS under fatigue loading. The felt pads loosen under repetitive loading and, in highly loaded regions, could possibly cause excessive step heights between tiles causing burning of the protective insulation between tiles. A method of improving the operational lifetime of the TPS by using a strain isolation pad with increased stiffness is presented as is the consequence of the effect of increased stiffness on the tile inplane strains and transverse stresses

Parkes-CDSCC telemetry array: Equipment design

A unique combination of Deep Space Network (DSN) and non-DSN facilities in Australia provided enhanced data return from the Voyager spacecraft as it encountered the planet Uranus. Many of the key elements are duplicated from Voyager's encounters with Jupiter and Saturn. Some are unique extensions of that technology

The Cost of Labor Adjustment: Inferences from the Gap

We study labor adjustment costs. We specify a dynamic optimization problem at the plant-level, allowing for both convex and non-convex adjustment costs. We estimate the parameters of the adjustment process using an indirect inference procedure in which simulated moments are matched with data moments. For this study we use estimates of reduced-form adjustment functions obtained by the gap methodology' reported in Caballero-Engel as data moments. Contrary to evidence at the micro level in support of non-convex adjustment costs, our findings indicate that piecewise quadratic adjustment costs are sufficient to match these aggregate moments.