Combination of precise orbit solutions for Sentinel-3A using Variance Component Estimation

Abstract

In this article we analyze the benefit of computing a combined solution from individual orbit solutions for the low Earth orbiting satellite Sentinel-3A. The selected combination scheme for calculating the combined solution is Variance Component Estimation (VCE). Before a combination is calculated, the individual orbit solutions are analyzed to identify systematic differences and characteristics. Simulation studies are performed to show under which conditions a combined solution of superior quality may be expected. The combined solution is validated by Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) measurements and compared with SLR validations of the individual solutions. The result of this investigation shows that VCE, implemented as an iterative procedure, is suitable to obtain an orbit solution of superior quality for Sentinel-3A.