The ATS-F/Nimbus-F tracking and orbit determination experiment

The experiment described was conducted to demonstrate a procedure for tracking a near-earth satellite via a geostationary satellite without the aid of multiple ground station tracking. Another objective of the experiment was connected with the utilization of the broad tracking coverage provided by the geostationary satellite to obtain an improved geopotential solution. Questions of overall experiment implementation are discussed along with details regarding ground equipment, the ATS-F transponder, and the Nimbus-F transponder. Aspects of measurement evaluation are also examined, taking into account basic measurements, measurement interpretation, and approaches for orbit computation.