Abstract: Computer systems (100) for satellite image acquisition and mission-plan calculation devices (120) for satellite and also Earth observation satellites (110). Based on the observation that the uncertainty connected with meteorological conditions can lead to the development of mission plans, for satellites, with low effectiveness, the uncertainty is characterized and used to improve the preparation of mission plans for satellite. A model of the uncertainties is built upon observations and/or past meteorological forecasts. Next, at the time of planning, the model is used by presenting the observations and/or the current forecast as input to the model. In that way, the acquisition zones for which it is unlikely to get acceptable images on the preferred acquisition date may be identified.

Abstract: A rim-rotor assembly has an annular structure including a composite rim and a hub. Blades project from the hub, tips of the blades contacting the annular structure, the blades configured to be loaded in compression against the annular structure. A thermal barrier is in the annular structure, the thermal barrier defining at least part of a radially inward surface of the annular structure. The tips of the blades contact the thermal barrier, the thermal barrier being a thermal barrier coating.

Abstract: A rim-rotor assembly has an annular structure including a composite rim and a hub. Blades project from the hub, tips of the blades contacting the annular structure, the blades configured to be loaded in compression against the annular structure. A thermal barrier is in the annular structure, the thermal barrier defining at least part of a radially inward surface of the annular structure. The tips of the blades contact the thermal barrier, the thermal barrier being a thermal barrier coating.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to rotary turbomachinery methods and integrated processes requiring high-energy efficiency. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to rim-rotor configurations enabling long-term survival under conditions of either high temperature or oxidation resistance or saturated fluid abrasion.

Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to rotary turbomachinery methods and integrated processes requiring high-energy efficiency. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to rim-rotor configurations enabling long-term survival under conditions of either high temperature or oxidation resistance or saturated fluid abrasion.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to high g-field combustion methods and integrated processes requiring high-energy efficiency and low NOx emissions to maximize fuel productivity and integrated process production output. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to the combustor having a g-field greater than 100,000 g's in an isothermal configuration by achieving concurrent combustion and expansion with the high g-field combustor in a rim-rotor turbomachine.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to rotary turbomachinery methods and integrated processes requiring high-energy efficiency. In one embodiment, the present invention relates to rim-rotor configurations enabling long-term survival under conditions of either high temperature or oxidation resistance or saturated fluid abrasion.