Orbital manoeuvres of Exosat X-ray observatory satellite
Abstract
The paper deals with ESA's Exosat, a scientific satellite designed to study X-ray sources both as a classical observatory and in a mode where occultation of X-ray sources by the earth and moon can be observed. The requirements for the latter mode are examined, the maneuvers are calculated, and the influence of performance errors is assessed. A strategy, based on a search method, for devising an optimal occultation plan is discussed.
- Publication:
-
Deutsche Gesellschaft fuer Luft- und Raumfahrt and American Astronautical Society
- Pub Date:
- March 1980
- Bibcode:
- 1980dglr.meetR....R
- Keywords:
-
- Exosat Satellite;
- Orbital Maneuvers;
- Satellite Orbits;
- Spacecraft Maneuvers;
- Error Analysis;
- Long Term Effects;
- Lunar Occultation;
- Orbital Mechanics;
- Astrodynamics