Satellite motion around an oblate planet
Subtitle: a perturbation solution for all orbital parameters
By: by D.A. Danielson, G.E. Latta, C.P. Sagovac, S.D. Krambeck, J.R. Snider
Contributors: Latta, Gordon, 1923-; Sagovac, Christopher Patrick; Krambeck, Scott David; Snider, James Ralph; Naval Postgraduate School (U.S.). Dept. of Mathematics
Publisher: Naval Postgraduate School; Available from National Technical Information Service
Published: 1993
Place of publication: Monterey, Calif; Springfield, Va
Language: eng
Number of pages: 21
Subjects: ARTIFICIAL SATELLITES; EQUATIONS OF MOTION; ORBITS
Other titles: NPS-MA-93-018.
Description: The search for a universal solution of the equations of motion for a satellite orbiting an oblate      planet is a subject that has merited great interest because of its theoretical and practical      implications. Here, a complete first- order perturbation solution, including the effects of the J2      terms in the planet's potential, is given in terms of standard orbital parameters. The simple      formulas provide a fast method for predicting satellite orbits that is more accurate than the      two-body formulas. These predictions are shown to agree well with those of a completely      numerical code and with actual satellite data. Also, in an appendix, it is rigorously proven that      a satellite having negative mechanical energy remains for all time within a spherical annulus with      radii approximately equal to the perigee and apogee of its initial osculating ellipse. ...      Perturbation solution, Oblate planet, Orbital parameters.
Notes: Cover title.

"NPS-MA-93-018."

"Technical report for period January 1993 - April 1993."

AD A265 779.

Includes bibliographical references (p.18-19).

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