Several textbooks are available in the areas of satellite orbits and celestial mechanics. The third section explains maneuvering strategies used to change the satellite's orbit The final two sections discuss the available launch times and methods for maintaining satellite orbits. The next section discusses how forces other than the Newtonian gravitational force affect the orbit of a satellite. We base this method on a simple, but accurate, model treating the Earth and the satellite as spherical masses.
The first section below explains the terms used to describe satellite orbits, provides equations necessary to calculate orbital elements from position and velocity, and shows how to predict the future position and velocity of a satellite. The satellite's ephemeris is a table listing its position as a function of time. Third-Body Perturbations Perturbations Because of a Nonspherical Earth Perturbations from Atmospheric Drag Perturbations from Solar RadiationĬoplanar Orbit Transfers Orbit Plane Changes Orbit RendezvousĪstrodynamics is the study of a satellite's trajectory or orbit, that is, its path through space.
Satellite Equations of Motion Constants of Motion Classical Orbital Elements Satellite Ground Tracks Time of Flight in an Elliptical Orbit Orbit Determination 62 Orbit Perturbations Boden, United States Naval Academy 6.1 Keplerian Oibits