Subcycle analysis for ICESat’s repeat groundtrack orbits and application to phasing maneuvers

The concept of repeat groundtrack orbit subcycles is presented in a general definition. The subcycles of ICESat’s 91-day repeat groundtrack orbit and their track offsets are mapped out on a chart of subcycles , which are used to decompose the repeat cycle into three main subcycles. The influence of...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Journal of the astronautical sciences 2008, Vol.56 (3), p.325-340
Main Authors: Pie, Nadège, Schutz, Bob E.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Aerospace Technology and Astronautics
Engineering
Maneuvers
Mathematical Applications in the Physical Sciences
Space Exploration and Astronautics
Space Sciences (including Extraterrestrial Physics
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Summary:The concept of repeat groundtrack orbit subcycles is presented in a general definition. The subcycles of ICESat’s 91-day repeat groundtrack orbit and their track offsets are mapped out on a chart of subcycles , which are used to decompose the repeat cycle into three main subcycles. The influence of the synchronicity parameters of the repeat groundtrack orbit is discussed using the Bezout equation. In a second part, a fuel efficient maneuver, called phasing maneuver , which enables the repositioning of the ICESat satellite into a different part of its repeat cycle is presented. A correlation between the properties of the transition orbit used to accomplish this phasing and the properties of ICESat subcycles are described. Results from on-orbit experience are given.
ISSN:0021-9142
2195-0571
DOI:10.1007/BF03256556