Satellite and launcher trajectory estimation using a data relay satellite
Abstract
The feasibility of using data relay satellites for obtaining range and range-rate measurements of low earth orbiting satellites is demonstrated. While resulting in estimation errors similar to those of ground stations, the approach proposed here provides the advantage of long visibility arcs. The estimation of launcher trajectories is more difficult because of the short arc length and thrust modeling errors. Adaptive schemes must be investigated more thoroughly before any definite conclusions can be made.
- Publication:
-
Lausanne International Astronautical Federation Congress
- Pub Date:
- October 1984
- Bibcode:
- 1984laus.iafcQR...B
- Keywords:
-
- Orbital Position Estimation;
- Range And Range Rate Tracking;
- Satellite Orbits;
- Tdr Satellites;
- Trajectory Analysis;
- Algorithms;
- Feasibility Analysis;
- Kalman Filters;
- Launch Vehicles;
- Space Communications, Spacecraft Communications, Command and Tracking