J2-Propelled Orbits and Constellations
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In this paper the linear J2orbital perturbation model is used to obtain orbits whose dynamic are periodic in the inertial frame and also in the Earth rotating frame. These orbits are here called "compatible J2-propelled" and "Earth-compatible J2-propelled," re-spectively. These orbits repeatedly cover specific volumes around the gravitational body and are particularly suitable to be adopted in the 3-D lattice flower constellations theory, that has been developed to include the J2linear perturbation. Using, rather than fighting the J2perturbation, directly imply long-term orbit stability, with low orbital maintenance costs that can be conveniently dedicated to compensate the non-J2orbital perturbations. Motivations come for single or multi-satellite space missions aiming to investigates the 3-Dimensional coverage of space volumes in inertial and/or Earth-rotating reference frames. Using J2-propelled orbits these space missions would be able to perform mapping of physical quantities with limited need of corrective orbital maneuvers. 2012 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. All rights reserved.
