GUEST: NASA LCROSS Software Lead Emory Stagmer
Link to NASA LCROSS observatory page
Homer steps out of his hotel, and looks at the sky.
“Thanks, Dad,” says Homer.
The next day, Homer is explaining how the de la Valle nozzle works to the science fair judges.
“When the rocket propellant burns,” says Homer, “it produces a river of gas which flows through the convergent section of the nozzle. If the river continues through the nozzle, but through the throat at less than sonic speed– that is to say, less than the speed of sound– it becomes compact – compacted in the divergent section – – bound in turmoil..”
The scene fades to the final day of the fair. It’s the awards ceremony.
“Lyle Wells and Jean Cooper,” says the judge, “Schrader High School, McMinnville, Oregon!”
A red-headed girl receives the award, then turns to the crowd and hurries back to her seat.