Orbital Mechanics: Theory and ApplicationsA lively study of orbital mechanics by the writer responsible for the computer simulations and systems analysis for the Saturn V moon rocket, Project Skylab and many others. Provides thorough coverage of all background theories, including unusual concepts and paradoxes that will enhance appreciation of this field. Includes discussion of rocket propulsion and optimization of techniques for maximizing payload and minimizing fuel consumption, plus complete coverage of the interaction of space vehicles and space bodies. |
Contents
An Introduction to Orbital Mechanics | 1 |
11 | 54 |
The Orbital Environment | 63 |
Earths Gravitational Field | 69 |
17 | 77 |
Pure PlaneChange Maneuvers | 85 |
WalkingOrbit Maneuvers | 92 |
SpaceAge Slingshots | 101 |
Optimal Fuel Biasing | 156 |
25 | 164 |
Choosing the Proper Orbit for a Satellite | 169 |
Choosing the Proper Constellation | 203 |
What is the Largest Constellation Ever Launched | 209 |
ComputerModeling Techniques | 215 |
SpaceAge Technologies for | 231 |
Project Skyhook | 242 |
Boosting a Satellite into Orbit | 107 |
23 | 127 |
Enhancing the Performance | 149 |
24 | 154 |
The Skyhook Complex | 248 |
Satellite Orbits | 254 |
About the Author | 263 |
Common terms and phrases
acceleration angle anomaly apogee approximately Ariane astronauts center of Earth circular orbit coasting communication satellites constellation cost curve debris fragments Delta Delta II eccentric anomaly eccentricity elliptical orbit energy equation executed feet per second force ft/sec fuel bias geosynchronous altitude geosynchronous satellite global coverage graph gravitational ground trace Hohmann transfer hurl ideal velocity Isaac Newton launched libration points low-altitude orbits maneuver sequence meteoroids mission mixture ratio Molniya orbits Molniya satellites multistage rocket nautical miles number of satellites optimal orbit plane ORBITAL ALTITUDE orbital inclination orbital mechanics orbiting satellites oxidizer payload percent perigee perturbations plane-change pounds propellants radius rocket burns Russian S-II satel satellite's orbit simulation skyhook sliding board solar solar sail solid-fuel rockets Soviet space shuttle spacecraft specific impulse strap-on Sun-synchronous orbits surface of Earth swing-by maneuver tanks tether thrust tion trajectory Transit satellites typical vector vehicle velocity increment