Gravity field model of Mars in spherical harmonics up to degree and order eighteen.
Abstract
A new model of Mars gravity field in spherical harmonics up to eighteenth degree and order has been computed from all available Doppler tracking data on Mariner 9 and Viking 1 and 2 Orbiters. It represents an achievement in the knowledge of Mars global gravitational potential, since no more data will be available for such a derivation before the next mission to the planet. The model has been extensively tested from the point of view of orbit representation over periods of time ranging from a few hours to 12 days, and it is currently used for geophysical studies of the Martian lithosphere.
- Publication:
-
Journal of Geophysical Research
- Pub Date:
- November 1982
- DOI:
- 10.1029/JB087iB12p09735
- Bibcode:
- 1982JGR....87.9735B
- Keywords:
-
- Gravitational Fields;
- Mars Atmosphere;
- Mars Surface;
- Mathematical Models;
- Spherical Harmonics;
- Lithosphere;
- Mariner 9 Space Probe;
- Mars Photographs;
- Photointerpretation;
- Viking Orbiter Spacecraft;
- Gravitation:Mars