THE ANALYSIS OF THERMAL TECHNIQUES FOR SPACEBORN MASS SENSING.
Abstract
An analysis is given of the possibilities for the determination of the mass of a satellite from the measurement of its thermal behavior. It is shown that only dynamic thermal processes exhibit mass dependency. An isothermal satellite model which possesses greater mass discrimination capability than structurally complex satellites is analyzed. It is found for this model that the uncertainties in the several parameters which influence the thermal behavior are inherently so large that only a feeble, inadequate mass dis crimination capability results. It is concluded that thermal techniques are not promising for the determination of the mass of a satellite. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 30, 1964
- Accession Number
- AD0601627
Entities
People
- Marsha E Ritter
Organizations
- The Aerospace Corporation