Orbit that does not need maneuvering

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on designing a satellite orbit at 700 km altitude with an eccentricity of 0.2, aiming for a configuration that requires no maneuvering. The user applied equations related to J2 perturbations and derived inclinations of i1 = 90° and i2 = 63°, suggesting that these inclinations could eliminate the need for maneuvers. However, the user remains uncertain about whether the effects of the right ascension of the ascending node (Ω) can counteract the argument of perigee (ω) and whether a different altitude might be more feasible for achieving a stable orbit without maneuvers.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics, specifically J2 perturbations
  • Familiarity with satellite orbital elements, including eccentricity and inclinations
  • Knowledge of the equations governing orbital dynamics
  • Basic grasp of the implications of altitude on satellite stability
NEXT STEPS
  • Research J2 perturbation effects on satellite orbits
  • Study the relationship between orbital inclinations and maneuver requirements
  • Explore alternative altitudes for satellite stability and maneuverability
  • Learn about the interactions between Ω and ω in orbital mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, orbital mechanics students, and satellite mission planners seeking to understand stable satellite orbit design without the need for continuous maneuvering.

Imagin_e
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Hi!

This is a textbook problem that I need help with (I want to practice as much as I can before the exams) and I hope that there is someone who can guide me. The question is:
You’re doing a first-order analysis on a new satellite in an elliptical (e = 0.2) orbit at 700 km altitude. Can you design the orbit so no maneuvers are necessary to maintain it? Hint: consider secular J2 perturbations only – can the effects of Ω counteract with ω? If it can’t be done at 700 km, is another altitude feasible?

Homework Equations


See below

The Attempt at a Solution


I used the following equations (for J2 perturbations) :
upload_2016-10-16_21-36-42.png


And for p and n:
upload_2016-10-16_21-36-36.png


I inserted n and p into the first two equations and got:

upload_2016-10-16_21-37-26.png


I assumed that they were all constant, so I ended up with:
upload_2016-10-16_21-39-17.png
upload_2016-10-16_21-39-31.png


And this gave me of i1 = 90° and i2=63°. If we have these inclinations then there is no need for maneuvering. And now for the next question:

The next question to answer is can the effects of Ω counteract with ω? If it can’t be done at 700 km, is another altitude feasible? I have no idea how to answer this question.

As you can see I may be completely lost. I don't see my solution feasible since it doesn't actually answer the question about the no maneuvering bit. Anyone that can help me? Thanks!
 
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