A Mathematical Description of the Low-Altitude Satellite Mission Planning Tool (LAMP)

Abstract

The Low-Altitude Mission Planning tool is capable of providing accurate long-term (approx. 90 day) predictions of key Keplerian orbit parameters and related quantities for one or two low-altitude satellites. Analytically modeled averaged variational equations are used to represent the effects of the geopotential oblateness upon satellite motion. Satellite drag perturbations are taken into account using a hybrid drag decay model which accounts for atmospheric oblateness and diurnal density variation. Adjustments to orbital parameters due to thrusting are modeled using analytical results obtained fom the Lagrange Planetary equations when impulsive thrusting is assumed. Propellant mass expenditures can also be obtained. This planning tool has application in the following areas: Operational interruption prediction; Propellant depletion rate studies; Operational flight strategy development; Orbit adjust impact assessment, and General mission planning.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1982
Accession Number
ADA119505

Entities

People

  • A. D. Parks

Organizations

  • Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Altitude
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Atmospheres
  • Computational Science
  • Computations
  • Equations
  • Geopotential
  • Jet Propulsion
  • Low Altitude
  • Orbital Elements
  • Periodic Variations
  • Perturbations
  • Propellants
  • Software Design
  • Solar Radiation
  • Space Systems
  • Variational Equations

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD)
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Spectroscopy.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Spacecraft Maneuvers