THE GRAVITATIONAL FIELD OF THE EARTH: ZONAL HARMONICS FROM TRANSIT 1B AND TRANSIT 2A DATA
Abstract
Values of the gravitational harmonic coefficients J2, J3, J4, J5 and J6 are given. The odd harmonics were deduced by analysis of the variation of eccentricity of the Transit 1B and 2A satellites. The even harmonics were deduced by analysis of the motion of the node of the Transit 1B and 2A satellites and of the motions reported by Kozai in reference (a) for the Vanguard I, Vanguard III and Explorer VII satellites. The constants are compared with those reported by several other researchers, and the effects of all available sets of constants in reducing the biases observed in the Transit 1B and 2A satellites are given. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 08, 1962
- Accession Number
- AD0278238
Entities
People
- M.j. Shelkey
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division