Magnetic Lasso: A New Kinematic Solar Wind Propagation Method

Solar wind propagation from the point of measurement to an arbitrary target in the heliosphere is an important input for heliospheric, planetary and cometary studies. In this paper a new kinematic propagation method, the magnetic lasso method is presented. Compared to the simple ballistic approach our method is based on reconstructing the ideal Parker spiral connecting the target with the Sun by testing a previously defined range of heliographic longitudes. The model takes into account the eventual evolution of stream–stream interactions and handles these with a simple model based on the dynamic pressure difference between the two streams. Special emphasis is given to input data cleaning by handling interplanetary coronal mass ejection events as data gaps due to their different propagation characteristics. The solar wind bulk velocity is considered radial and constant. Density and radial magnetic field are propagated by correcting with the inverse square of the radial distance. The model has the advantage that it can be coded easily and fitted to the problem; it is flexible in selecting and handling input data and requires little running time.     

Analysis of Design Characteristics of Snake-Type Atmospheric Probes (Vetrolets) for Studying the Atmosphere of Venus

In Russia, work aimed at designing a spacecraft for the long-term exploration of Venus is currently underway as part of the VENUS-D project. The R&D work proposes the concept of a snake-type atmospheric probe intended for exploring the atmosphere of Venus. This article describes the principles of flight, considers the main design features and engineering characteristics of the probes, and provides recommendations for engineering solutions.     

On the Trajectories of Asteroid Encounters with the Earth for 2015 RN35 and Apophis

A great number of probable encounters of asteroid 2015 RN35 with the Earth have been found; many of them were unknown earlier. The main characteristics and properties of the corresponding trajectories have been obtained. Probable impacts of the asteroid Apophis with the Earth are also discussed. The results suggest that the multitudes of potential impacts of hazardous asteroids with the Earth can be and must be analyzed in more detail. Such an analysis is required to plan and implement the measures on preventing the asteroid impact hazard.     

Creating an isotopically similar Earth–Moon system with correct angular momentum from a giant impact

The giant impact hypothesis is the dominant theory explaining the formation of our Moon. However, the inability to produce an isotopically similar Earth–Moon system with correct angular momentum has cast a shadow on its validity. Computer-generated impacts have been successful in producing virtual systems that possess many of the observed physical properties. However, addressing the isotopic similarities between the Earth and Moon coupled with correct angular momentum has proven to be challenging. Equilibration and evection resonance have been proposed as means of reconciling the models. In the summer of 2013, the Royal Society called a meeting solely to discuss the formation of the Moon. In this meeting, evection resonance and equilibration were both questioned as viable means of removing the deficiencies from giant impact models. The main concerns were that models were multi-staged and too complex. We present here initial impact conditions that produce an isotopically similar Earth–Moon system with correct angular momentum. This is done in a single-staged simulation. The initial parameters are straightforward and the results evolve solely from the impact. This was accomplished by colliding two roughly half-Earth-sized impactors, rotating in approximately the same plane in a high-energy, off-centered impact, where both impactors spin into the collision.     

The Impact Effect Callculator of Celestial Body Impacts to the Earth: The Constructor of Hazardous Orbits

Quick assessment of hazardous effects from impacts of large celestial bodies is achieved through the development of a new consequence calculator. A distinctive feature of this calculator is a new block, the Hazardous-Orbit Constructor, which simulates the conditions of entry of a celestial body into the Earth’s atmosphere and determines the orbital parameters of the body based on given atmospheric entry conditions. This block is used to simulate the atmospheric entry conditions of known asteroids and meteoroids and to determine the orbital parameters of known bolides leading to meteorite fall events. For the case of asteroid 2008 TC3 and the P?ibram meteorite, it is shown that within the potential impact area of the celestial body, the atmospheric entry angle may vary considerably.     

Radiosounding of the High-Latitude Ionosphere with the <Emphasis Type="Italic">Arktika-M</Emphasis> Hydrometeorological Complex

The satellite ionosondes in highly elliptical orbits are proposed to be used for the task of continuous monitoring of the Arctic ionosphere. The monitoring scheme with the ionosonde location aboard the Arktika-M satellites is presented. The calculations of the vertical topside and transionospheric sounding using the SIMP1 ionospheric model are performed, which show the feasibility of continuous monitoring.     

Boguslawsky Crater on the Moon: Landing Site Selection for the <Emphasis Type="Italic">Luna–Glob</Emphasis> Mission Descent Module

The article reviews the results of photo geological study of the lunar surface in terms of selection of most favorable landing sites from the point of view of science merit and safety for the Luna—Glob mission descent module.