AAS 97-675
TRENDS IN POSITION DETERMINATION FOR U.S. GOVERNMENT SATELLITES
B.L. Simpson - The Aerospace Corporation and Capt T.J. Rade - USAF, SMC/CWI
Abstract
Since the launch of the first U.S. satellites, several different measurement techniques and associated systems have been developed and employed by the government to determine satellite positions. Increased orbit determination accuracy needs driven by advances in sensor technology, advances in position determination technology, as well as world-wide pressures to make more efficient use of the radio frequency spectrum are causing many satellite operations organizations to examine their current vehicle position measurement techniques. We explore the influencing factors and the position determination trends in DoD and civil space agencies' satellite operations.