An Investigation of Spin-Orbit Resonance Effects About the Geosynchronous Orbit.
Abstract
An investigation of the spin-orbit resonance effects about the geosynchronous orbit was undertaken to determine the existence and feasibility for use of additional stable equilibrium points in this regime for the placement of communications satellites. The Hamiltonian of the geopotential was developed in Delaunay elements using first and second order zonal and sectorial harmonic terms. The resulting Hamiltonian, which was valid for all inclinations and small eccentricities, was reduced to a single degree of freedom through a series of transformations to allow computer generation of phase portraits and analysis of the structure and librational stability. Three resonance bands were discovered, two of which seemed practical for operational use. Although the second of these bands was contained within the primary resonance structure, its width (246 meters) and librational period (625 years) appear useful for satellite placement at the additional stable equilibrium points. Additionally, the general technique was demonstrated as a feasible alternative investigative tool to a purely analytic approach. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1982
- Accession Number
- ADA124724
Entities
People
- Thomas Sean Kelso
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology