Estimability and simple dynamical analyses of range (range-rate and range-difference) observations to artificial satellites
Abstract
The estimable quantities are indicated for simple dynamical analyses of range (range-rate and range-difference) observations to artificial satellites. The philosophy of the analysis is based on non-Bayesian statistics. No a priori knowledge for the parameters is assumed, but mathematical models are developed with unconditional estimable parameters. The simulation studies centered around laser range observations to LAGEOS. The capabilities of satellite laser ranging are evaluated. The satellite measurement system under investigation may fall short in precise determinations of the earth's orientation and the earth's rotation. Relative station positioning, determination of (differential) polar motion, positioning of stations with respect to the earth's center of mass and determination of the earth's gravity field should be easily realized by satellite laser ranging.
- Publication:
-
Ph.D. Thesis
- Pub Date:
- May 1978
- Bibcode:
- 1978PhDT........22V
- Keywords:
-
- Artificial Satellites;
- Dynamic Characteristics;
- Range (Extremes);
- Variance (Statistics);
- Earth Rotation;
- Gravitation;
- Laser Range Finders;
- Mathematical Models;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles