Initial Conditions for an Orbital Resonance in a Satellite System.

Abstract

This project undertook to examine the conditions of the 3/2 resonance between the planets of Pluto and Neptune and try to determine whether it was possible for Pluto to have escaped from Neptune and became his moon. The writer uses numerical integration and computer programs to establish that the Neptune and Pluto are in resonance, consequently they would never come close enough to one another for Pluto to be a moon. In conclusion: the writer has eliminated the major objection to the moon hypothesis as to Pluto's origin. (Author)

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1978
Accession Number
ADA058655

Entities

People

  • Stephen M. Hopkins

Organizations

  • United States Naval Academy

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Human Systems
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Angular Momentum
  • Aphelions
  • Computer Programs
  • Computers
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Eccentricity
  • Equations
  • Momentum
  • Nodes
  • Numerical Integration
  • Orbits
  • Outer Planets
  • Perihelions
  • Solar System
  • United States
  • United States Naval Academy
  • Urban Areas

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Astronomy/Astrophysics
  • Military History of the United States in the 20th Century.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris