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Full-Text Articles in Astrodynamics
Mass Estimation Through Fusion Of Astrometric And Photometric Data Collection With Application To High Area-To-Mass Ratio Objects, Matthew Richardson
Mass Estimation Through Fusion Of Astrometric And Photometric Data Collection With Application To High Area-To-Mass Ratio Objects, Matthew Richardson
Master's Theses
This thesis work presents the formulation for a tool developed in MATLAB to determine the mass of a space object from the fusion of astrometric and photometric data. The application for such a tool is to better model the mass estimation method used for high area-to-mass ratio objects found in high altitude orbit regimes. Typically, the effect of solar radiation pressure is examined with angles observations to deduce area-to-mass ratio calculations for space objects since the area-to-mass ratio can greatly affect its orbital dynamics. On the other hand, photometric data is not sensitive to mass but is a function of …
Orbital Determination Feasibility Of Leo Nanosatellites Using Small Aperture Telescopes, Michael R. Strange
Orbital Determination Feasibility Of Leo Nanosatellites Using Small Aperture Telescopes, Michael R. Strange
Master's Theses
This thesis is directed toward the feasibility of observing satellites on the nano scale and determining an accurate propagated orbit using a Meade LX600-ACF 14” diameter aperture telescope currently located on the California Polytechnic State University campus. The optical telescope is fitted with an f/6.3 focal reducer, SBIG ST-10XME CCD camera and Optec TCF-S Focuser. This instrumentation allowed for a 22’ X 15’ arcminute FOV in order to accurately image passing LEO satellites. Through the use of the Double-r and Gauss Initial Orbit Determination methods as well as Least Squared Differential Correction and Extended Kalman Filter Orbit Determination methods, an …
The Collisional Evolution Of Orbital Debris In Geopotential Wells And Disposal Orbits, Benjamin Polzine
The Collisional Evolution Of Orbital Debris In Geopotential Wells And Disposal Orbits, Benjamin Polzine
Master's Theses
This thesis investigates the orbital debris evolution in the geosynchronous disposal orbit regime and within geosynchronous orbits effected by the geopotential wells. A propagator is developed for the accurate simulation of GEO specific orbits and the required perturbations are determined and described. Collisions are then simulated in the selected regimes using a low velocity breakup model derived from the NASA EVOLVE breakup model. The simulations described in this thesis consider a set of perturbations including the geopotential, solar and lunar gravity, and solar radiation pressure forces. This thesis is based on a prior paper and additionally seeks to address an …