The flexural behavior of PACSAT (passive communication satellite) in orbit
Abstract
This report presents an analysis of the libration and vibration of a passive communications satellite known as PACSAT. It addresses the effects of various disturbing mechanical forces on verticality and straightness. Phenomena considered include orbital ellipticity, earth oblateness, solar and lunar gravity, radiation pressure, micrometeorial impacts, and thermal bending effects. The last two are the most important. It is concluded that the flexural misbehavior of PACSAT in orbit is such that it is most improbable that the present design (unsupported linear array) can perform its communications functions.
- Publication:
-
Interim Report RAND Corp
- Pub Date:
- February 1983
- Bibcode:
- 1983rand.rept.....S
- Keywords:
-
- Behavior;
- Bending;
- Communication Satellites;
- Elliptical Orbits;
- Impact;
- Loads (Forces);
- Vibration;
- Flexibility;
- Gravitational Fields;
- Perturbation;
- Radiation Pressure;
- Thermodynamic Properties;
- Launch Vehicles and Space Vehicles