Modeling Relative Position Relative Velocity and Range Rate for Formation Flying

Abstract

The relative position, relative velocity, and range rate evolution is examined for various formations of satellites. A simple analytical model including Earth oblateness effects for the equations of relative motion is presented. This model provides physical insight into the Earth oblateness effects that are neglected by using Hill's equations. The accuracy of the relative position, relative velocity, and range rate predictions for the analytical model are compared to realistic force modeling obtained using the Draper Semianalytical Satellite Theory for Formations of varying size, inclination, and altitude.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 2002
Accession Number
ADA436585

Entities

People

  • Aaron Swank
  • Chris Sabol
  • Craig A. Mclaughlin
  • K. K. Luu
  • Richard D. Burns

Organizations

  • Air Force Research Laboratory

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Accuracy
  • Air Force
  • Air Force Research Laboratories
  • Altitude
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Differential Equations
  • Eccentric Orbits
  • Equations
  • Equations Of Motion
  • Military Research
  • Orbital Elements
  • Radiation Pressure
  • Relative Motion
  • Solar Radiation
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Vehicles

Readers

  • Computational Modeling and Simulation
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Orbital Debris