Optical calibration of geostationary satellite tracking systems

A precise calibration method for range and angle observation has been developed to eliminate the systematic error of tracking systems, thus making it possible to improve the accuracy of orbit determination for geostationary satellites. The calibration is based on an orbit determination using a point of optical angle observation along with radio tracking observation, in which observation bias parameters are estimated simultaneously with orbital elements, including the effects of geodetic mismodelings. A calibration experiment performed at the Kashima earth station shows that the accuracy of orbit determination has been improved to such a degree that the satellite range can be predicted within an error of 6 m maximum four days after the day of orbit determination.