POSITION PREDICTION FOR ACQUISITION IN SATELLITE GEODESY,

Abstract

The Coast and Geodetic Survey is conducting a program in satellite geodesy for greater accuracy in geodetic measurement. This is a method of spatial triangulation which requires photographic observation of an identified satellite at three or more points on the earth's surface. SPADATS orbital parameters were used to predict the posi tion of satellites relative to the APG tracking station site. These predictions provided a very reliable means of acquisition. The computing method for converting the orbital parameters to position as a function of time is presented in detail. In addition, methods are described for estimating the amount of sunlight that is expected to be reflected to tracking stations by passive satellites such as ECHO. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 1963
Accession Number
AD0428301

Entities

People

  • R. B. Patton Jr.

Organizations

  • Ballistic Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Acquisition
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Geodesy
  • Geodetic Surveys
  • Measurement
  • Measuring Instruments
  • Navigational Equipment
  • Observation
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Stations
  • Sunlight
  • Surveys
  • Tracking Stations
  • Triangulation

Readers

  • Approximation Theory.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris