An Investigation of Long Term Orbits About the Planet Mars Using a Dynamic Atmosphere Model
Abstract
This study examines the effects of atmospheric drag on the long term orbital motion of an artificial satellite about the planet Mars using a dynamic Martian atmosphere model instead of a static atmosphere model. Present studies of motion through the Martian atmosphere use a non-rotating (static) atmosphere model which has a simple exponential drop-off with altitude. However, Mars, like other planets, is known to have a turbulent, complex atmosphere. As a result, a new dynamic model of the Martian atmosphere uses data from recent space probes of Mars to simulate an atmosphere that is both position dependent, through latitude and longitude effects, and time dependent, through a variety of effects. These include diurnal and seasonal effects, annual motion effects, solar activity effects, and dust storm effects. Nine constituent gases are included in the above model. The model determines atmospheric mass density for the calculation of atmospheric drag. The existing static model is also used to calculate atmospheric drag to provide a comparison in conjunction with other effects. In addition to atmospheric drag, perturbations due to the attraction of the sun, the aspherical gravity field of Mars, and the effects of the solar wind are also modeled. The resulting orbital data are then compared to determine the differences between the two models, thus showing the effects on long term motion of using a dynamic model of the Martian atmosphere. Theses.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1989
- Accession Number
- ADA216111
Entities
People
- Zoltan L. Farago
Organizations
- Air Force Institute of Technology