Implementation of Suggestions for the Direct Combination of Satellite and Gravimetric Data,

Abstract

A modification of an existing orbit determination-analysis program where potential coefficients are solved for is discussed. The modifications include those dealing with the variational equations and the adjustment procedure that will allow mean anomalies to replace the potential coefficients as descriptions of the gravitational field of the earth. It is suggested that 184-15 degree equal area blocks be used as the unknown gravitational parameters. The terrestrial estimates of these blocks must be made from smaller subdivision blocks and then referenced to anomalies implied by a reference set of potential coefficients that are used for the reference orbit computation. It is suggested that the iteration of the orbital solution be carried out using a fixed set of coefficients. After the iteration has converged one last run should be made using the program modified to incorporate mean anomalies as unknowns. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1971
Accession Number
AD0742286

Entities

People

  • Richard H. Rapp

Organizations

  • Ohio State University

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artificial Satellites
  • Coefficients
  • Computations
  • Differential Equations
  • Equations
  • Gravitational Fields
  • Iterations
  • Mathematical Analysis
  • Mathematics
  • Variational Equations

Readers

  • Applied Combinatorial Optimization and Logic Circuit Design.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris