Analysis of 27 Satellite Orbits to Determine Odd Zonal Harmonics in the Geopotential.

Abstract

The odd zonal harmonics in the geopotential are the terms independent of longitude and antisymmetric about the equator: they define the 'pear-shape' effect. The coefficients J3, J5, J7, ... of these harmonics have been evaluated by analyzing the variations in eccentricity of 27 orbits covering a wide range of inclinations.

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1973
Accession Number
AD0776750

Entities

People

  • Desmond King-Hele
  • G. E. Cook

Organizations

  • Royal Aircraft Establishment

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artificial Satellites
  • Coefficients
  • Coverings
  • Eccentricity
  • Geopotential
  • Grids
  • Harmonics
  • Longitude
  • Orbits
  • Satellite Orbits
  • Shape
  • Spacecraft
  • Spacecraft Orbits

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris