Doppler Satellite Data Characteristics.

Abstract

Random, oscillator and ionospheric errors are reviewed for Doppler observations of satellites. For omnidirectional antennas, random errors of Doppler measurements over 30-second intervals exceeded 20 cm about 30 percent of the time yielding measurement precision in the satellite position of about 50 cm based on a pass of data. High gain antennas showed random errors of only a few centimeters, but gave a precision in position of only 4 m because of the short Doppler count normally made with the equipment considered. However, oscillator errors significantly degrade this precision unless stabilities of about 5X10 to the -13th power are achieved for averaging times of about 1000 seconds. If such oscillators are utilized, a higher precision in position determination can be realized for continuously counted Doppler data by exploiting the continuous character of the measurement in the processing of the data. Neglected higher order ionospheric effects produce measurement errors equivalent to a meter or more during periods of high solar activity. (Author)

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 1983
Accession Number
ADA154868

Entities

People

  • R. J. Anderle

Organizations

  • Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Crystal Oscillators
  • Data Processing
  • Geography
  • High Gain
  • Jet Propulsion
  • Measurement
  • Navigation
  • Navigation Satellites
  • New Mexico
  • Observation
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Space Sciences
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Standards

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Mathematics or Statistics
  • Spectroscopy.

Technology Areas

  • Space