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On the Dynamics of the LAGEOS-I Spin Vector: High Precision Direct Observations and Comparisons to Theoretical Modeling

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  12 April 2016

D. Currie ,
K. Kissell ,
P. Avizonis  and
D. Wellnitz
D. Currie
Affiliation:
Department of Physics, University of Maryland College Park, Maryland, USA
K. Kissell
Affiliation:
Department of Physics, University of Maryland College Park, Maryland, USA
P. Avizonis
Affiliation:
Department of Physics, University of Maryland College Park, Maryland, USA
D. Wellnitz
Affiliation:
Department of Physics, University of Maryland College Park, Maryland, USA

Abstract

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LAGEOS I is a high-density geodetic satellite launched by NASA on 4 May 1976 (Johnson et al., 1976). Using a network of laser ranging stations, GSFC/NASA has maintained extremely accurate information on the orbital motions of LAGEOS I, and the later LAGEOS II and on the time-dependent evolution of their orbital parameters. The development of short-pulse laser ranging systems, and better models for atmospheric refractive effects, have dramatically improved the ability to locate the spacecraft or measure geodetic position and terrestrial crustal motion, but these systems do not measure the satellite rotational motion or gyroscopic effects, thought initially unimportant. Primarily as a result of technical strides in orbit determination, it is now recognized that the spin-motion is critical to understanding weak but important interactions with the environment.

Type
Dynamics of Artificial Satellites and Space Debris
Information
International Astronomical Union Colloquium , Volume 165: Dynamics and Astrometry of Natural and Artificial Celestial Bodies , 1997 , pp. 341 - 346
Copyright
Copyright © Kluwer 1997

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