Abstract:
Geosynchronous Earth Orbit (GEO) dynamics are strongly influenced by gravitational harmonics, solar radiation pressure, and third-body perturbations, all of which drive long-term variations in inclination, eccentricity, and longitude. This work characterizes these perturbations and examines their operational implications for station-keeping, drift behavior, and collision risk. The resident-space-object environment in GEO is assessed by comparing cataloged objects with the true population, highlighting limitations in detection, orbit determination, and cross-tagging. Collision probability concepts are outlined, emphasizing sensitivity to covariance accuracy and observational quality. A hypothetical GEO conjunction scenario illustrates expected relative velocities and debris outcomes, while a case study of the Galaxy-15 anomaly demonstrates the consequences of drifting satellites on conjunction assessment. Overall, the analysis underscores the necessity of accurate ephemerides, robust catalog maintenance, and probabilistic methods to ensure safe operations within the GEO belt.
Keywords:
Click a keyword to filter the list of related assets below.
Vallado, D.A., "Is my Geosynchronous satellite going to be hit?," Guest Lecture, 1st Annual Astrodynamics Research Group of Penn State (ARGoPS) Symposium, 3-4 Nov 2017, accessible at https://comspoc.com/Resources/Content/Private/C-20220425T173704/Presentation/PSU%20Nov%202017%20Geosynchronous%20Perturbations%20and%20Drifting%20Satellites.pdf.
