Satellite Motion in an Axi-Symmetric Gravitational Field. Part 1. Perturbations Due to J(2) (Second Order) and J(3)

Abstract

Full details are given of the untruncated second-order orbital theory. The analysis only takes account of the first two zonal harmonics, J2 and J3 geopotential assumed. The principal merit of the theory derives from the extreme compactness of the results obtained for short-period perturbations in position and velocity, these perturbations being expressed relative to a system of spherical-polar coordinates based on a rotating 'mean orbital plane'. The use of osculating elements is thereby avoided, and mean elements is thereby avoided, and mean elements are defined so as to give the coordinate perturbations their simplest possible form. To make the theory both complete and compact, an intermediate set of elements, described as 'semi-mean', is also required.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1988
Accession Number
ADA223797

Entities

People

  • Robert H. Gooding

Organizations

  • Royal Aircraft Establishment

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • C4I
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Angular Momentum
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Birds
  • Celestial Mechanics
  • Circular Orbits
  • Computations
  • Computer Programs
  • Coordinate Systems
  • Energy
  • Equatorial Orbits
  • Generators
  • Latitude
  • Mechanics
  • Orbital Elements
  • Orbital Inclination
  • Orbits
  • Satellite Orbits

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Calculus or Mathematical Analysis
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris