Author : Frank A. Marcos
Publisher :
ISBN 13 :
Total Pages : 28 pages
Book Rating : 4.3/5 (91 download)
Book Synopsis Satellite Density Measurements with the Rotatable Calibration Accelerometer (ROCA) by : Frank A. Marcos
Download or read book Satellite Density Measurements with the Rotatable Calibration Accelerometer (ROCA) written by Frank A. Marcos and published by . This book was released on 1979 with total page 28 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Satellite accelerometer measurements of atmospheric density have provided significant improvement in our understanding of the structure and dynamics of the lower thermosphere. Derivation of accurate data with this technique requires removal of instrument bias from the total sensor output. The ROCA (Rotatable Calibration Accelerometer) experiment was flown to provide and orbital calibration capability on the three-axis stabilized S3-4 satellite. The ROCA sensitive axis could be operated in either of two orientations selectable by ground command. For density measurement (normal operating mode) the sensitive axis was aligned with the satellite velocity vector. For direct measurement of bias, the sensitive axis was aligned perpendicular to the velocity vector. Utilization of the inflight calibration technique showed a dependence of the bias upon the instrument operating temperature. Removal of the bias-temperature component from the total acceleration signal obtained in the normal operating mode permits derivation of accurate density data. Measurements of atmospheric density were obtained during approximately 600 orbits over a five month period. The resulting ROCA data will be utilized for improved satellite ephemeris computations and for detailed studies of the lower thermosphere, particularly those related to energy inputs at high latitudes. (Author).