A GSFC alternative to the SLR MERIT constantsThe use of the Lageos satellite to monitor the earth's orientation is examined. The derivations of long wavelength ocean tidal parameters, a geocentric gravitational constant of 398,600.436 cu km/ sq sec + or - 0.0001 cu km/sq sec, and Love numbers using Lageos laser ranging data are described. The uncertainties of the geopotential model, GEM-L2 of Lerch et al. (1982), are discussed. The calculation of polar motion using the Lageos constants is considered. The Lageos constants are tested by applying them to independent laser ranging data. It is determined that the new constants improve the rms of fit to independent Lageos data and improve the earth orientation parameters compared to VLBI data obtained during the IRIS project.
Document ID
19870048899
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Christodoulidis, Demosthenes C. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Smith, David E. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Klosko, Steven M. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Torrence, Mark H. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Dunn, Peter J. (EG&G Washington Analytical Services Center Inc., Lanham, MD, United States)