Abstract AAS 97-670

AAS 97-670

MODELING ISSUES CONCERNING MOTION OF THE SATURNIAN SATELLITES

S.G. Tragesser and J.M. Longuski -Purdue University

Abstract

In principle, what is the simplest model of the Saturnian system which is capable of providing 1 km accuracy (or better) for the positions of the major satellites over a period of 4 years (corresponding to the duration of the Cassini mission)? We answer this question by investigating the effects of spherical harmonics, Saturn's rings, tides, minor satellites and the sun and planets. The methodology developed may be applied to a host of other space missions.

INVITED SESSION