Presents new algorithms for determining orbits; ideal for graduate students and researchers in applied mathematics, physics, astronomy and aerospace engineering.

Statistical Orbit Determination presents fundmentals of orbit determination--from weighted least squares approaches (Gauss) to today's high-speed computer algorithms that provide accuracy within a few centimeters. Numerous examples and problems are provided to enhance readers' understanding of the material. - Covers such topics as coordinate and time systems, square root filters, process noise techniques, and the use of fictitious parameters for absorbing un-modeled and incorrectly modeled forces acting on a satellite. - Examples and exercises serve to illustrate the principles throughout each chapter.

This modern presentation guides readers through the theory and practice of satellite orbit prediction and determination. Starting from the basic principles of orbital mechanics, it covers elaborate force models as well as precise methods of satellite tracking. The accompanying CD-ROM includes source code in C++ and relevant data files for applications. The result is a powerful and unique spaceflight dynamics library, which allows users to easily create software extensions. An extensive collection of frequently updated Internet resources is provided through WWW hyperlinks.

Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students, Second Edition, provides an introduction to the basic concepts of space mechanics. These include vector kinematics in three dimensions; Newton's laws of motion and gravitation; relative motion; the vector-based solution of the classical two-body problem; derivation of Kepler's equations; orbits in three dimensions; preliminary orbit determination; and orbital maneuvers. The book also covers relative motion and the two-impulse rendezvous problem; interplanetary mission design using patched conics; rigid-body dynamics used to characterize the attitude of a space vehicle; satellite attitude dynamics; and the characteristics and design of multi-stage launch vehicles. Each chapter begins with an outline of key concepts and concludes with problems that are based on the material covered. This text is written for undergraduates who are studying orbital mechanics for the first time and have completed courses in physics, dynamics, and mathematics, including differential equations and applied linear algebra. Graduate students, researchers, and experienced practitioners will also find useful review materials in the book. - NEW: Reorganized and improved discusions of coordinate systems, new discussion on perturbations and quarternions - NEW: Increased coverage of attitude dynamics, including new Matlab algorithms and examples in chapter 10 - New examples and homework problems

Modern Orbit Determination is an introduction to the applications of estimation theory to orbit determination. Beginning with the deterministic point of view, the author moves towards the more modern stochastic viewpoint. The fact that the degree of determinism present is an engineering decision is emphasized.

This modern textbook guides the reader through the theory and practice of the motion and attitude control of space vehicles. It first presents the fundamental principles of spaceflight mechanics and then addresses more complex concepts and applications of perturbation theory, orbit determination and refinement, space propulsion, orbital maneuvers, interplanetary trajectories, gyroscope dynamics, attitude control, and rocket performance. Many algorithms used in the modern practice of trajectory computation are also provided. The numerical treatment of the equations of motion, the related methods, and the tables needed to use them receive particular emphasis. A large collection of bibliographical references (including books, articles, and items from the "gray literature") is provided at the end of each chapter, and attention is drawn to many internet resources available to the reader. The book will be of particular value to undergraduate and graduate students in aerospace engineering.