The inclusion of higher degree and order gravity terms in the design of a repeat ground track orbitMean Orbit Elements can be chosen such that a desired ground track repeat criteria is obtained when propagating with the secular effects of a central body gravity field. If the proper initial conditions are chosen that correspond to these Mean Elements, the orbit can also be propagated with the full gravity field and form another ground track repeat pattern. Further, if the effects of other perturbative forces are compensated for, such that the ground track remains near this pattern, the central body effects can again be considered repetitive. The process of arriving at these conclusions, along with the supporting numerical simulations, are presented.
Document ID
19900065923
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Vincent, Mark A. (JPL Pasadena, CA, United States)