Analysis of Parking Orbits for a STS External Tank in Low Earth Orbit

Abstract

A study was conducted of a single external tank in low earth orbit. Criteria for a parking orbit are then defined. Various orbits are then selected by varying the semi-major axis, eccentricity, and inclination. The resulting equations of motion for each of the above orbits (including atmospheric drag and a 2x0 gravity model) are numerically integrated over a time span of 90 earth days. An examination was made of the lowest initial altitudes which allowed the external tank to remain in the orbit window.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Nov 01, 1990
Accession Number
ADA230530

Entities

People

  • James E. Cross

Organizations

  • Air Force Institute of Technology

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Astronautics
  • Cartesian Coordinates
  • Earth Orbits
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Jet Propulsion
  • Low Earth Orbits
  • Orbital Elements
  • Orbits
  • Parking Orbits
  • Satellite Orbits
  • Space Transportation
  • Spacecraft
  • Spacecraft Orbits
  • Trajectories

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Control Systems Engineering.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris