Minimizing Secular J₂ Perturbation Effects on Satellite Formations

Author

Jonathan W. Wright

Date of Award

3-14-2008

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Astronautical Engineering

Department

Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics

First Advisor

Nathan Titus, PhD

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to examine the secular effects of the J₂ oblateness perturbation on close proximity satellites. The main objective is to analyze the deputy’s position and velocity with respect to the chief and adjust the initial conditions of the deputy in an attempt to minimize the secular effects of J₂ perturbations. Previous work has provided a method of obtaining a closed form solution for J₂ invariance with co-planar orbits. Therefore, this work will primarily consider deputy orbits that experience motion outside of the chief’s orbital plane. Upon determining the required initial conditions, the invariance will be verified through numerical integration. The method will be considered successful when it is able to reduce secular effects to near numerical tolerances.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-GA-ENY-08-M08

DTIC Accession Number

ADA489731

Comments

Plain-text title: Minimizing Secular J2 Perturbation Effects on Satellite Formations

Recommended Citation

Wright, Jonathan W., "Minimizing Secular J₂ Perturbation Effects on Satellite Formations" (2008). Theses and Dissertations. 2703.
https://scholar.afit.edu/etd/2703