Covariance analysis for the special perturbations orbit determination problem for deep-space satellites is considered to determine the relative merit of radar and optical tracking data.
Covariance Analysis for Deep-space Satellites with Radar and Optical Tracking Data
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Covariance analysis for the special perturbations orbit determination problem for deep-space satellites is considered to determine the relative merit of radar and optical tracking data. Deep-space radars provide very accurate range measurements, but less accurate angle measurements. Optical sensors provide very accurate angle measurements, but make no range measurements since they are passive systems. The relationship of the size of the spatial part of the covariance to the relative track density of radar and optical tracks in the orbit determination fit interval is illustrated for various satellite orbits, including circular semi-synchronous, highly eccentric semi-synchronous, and geosynchronous.