Features of geosynchronous space objects motion near 75oE

Abstract

Spacecrafts in geostationary orbit are subject to a complex set of disturbances that involve changes in orbital parameters. Corrections to the orbit are regularly carried out to keep the satellite at a given point of standing. The geostationary satellites must be moved to the disposal orbit after finishing their service life. Otherwise they begin to move towards the nearest stable point of libration and to make oscillatory movements in longitude, regularly approaching different satellites, which creates a threat of collision. The theory of motion for large space objects is well developed and their movement is predictable. However, small-sized fragments of space debris, are highly susceptible to difficult-to-predict non-gravitational disturbances. It is important to study the orbital motion of space objects that perform libration movements near 75∘E,where the majority of Russian working geostationary satellites are located. Optical measurements at observatories in Zvenigorod, at the Terskol peak and on Sanglokh Mount (Tajikistan) of some of the librational geosynchronous objects were performed. Results of the analysis of some of the geosynchronous small-sized fragments are given.

Keywords

• optical observations of space debris
• geostationary orbit
• area-to-mass ratio