Geosynchronous Orbit Determination Using High Accuracy Angular Observations

Abstract

As part of the High Accuracy Network Determination System (HANDS), Raven-class telescopes were built to provide observations with less than an arcsecond of error. While achieving low noise levels, previous work has shown that HANDS optical data contain systematic errors which limit orbit determination accuracy; therefore, the challenge is being able to fully utilize that data to produce deep-space orbits with great certainty. This paper presents findings that better define the limitations of the angles-only observation sets. The results presented supplement, refine, and provide more detailed analysis of the previous work in the areas of systematic error modeling, error assessment, and unmodeled perturbations. This research was accomplished by analyzing orbit determination solutions for a geosynchronous satellite (TDRS-5) and a decommissioned supersynchronous defense satellite (DSCS-3/A1).

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Mar 18, 2005
Accession Number
ADA431016

Entities

People

  • Benjamin Visser
  • Chris Sabol
  • Scott Dahlke

Organizations

  • United States Air Force Academy

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Astronautics
  • Data Analysis
  • Deep Space
  • Errors
  • Geosynchronous Orbits
  • Geosynchronous Satellites
  • Low Noise
  • Measurement
  • Military Research
  • Observation
  • Orbits
  • Perturbations
  • Solar Radiation

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Astronomy and Astrophysics.
  • Computational Modeling and Simulation

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris
  • Space - Satellites
  • Space - Space Objects