Abstract
The recent use of the U.K. Satellite Laser Ranging System in non-ranging mode to obtain astrometric and photometric observations of artificial satellites is described. It is found that the system is capable of obtaining a series of directional normal points of accuracy about 5″ throughout a pass of a close-Earth satellite. Simultaneous with the directional observations photometric observations were obtained with a time resolution of 0.2 s. The directional and photometric observations obtained from a pass of the discarded rocket body of Cosmos 1844 (1987-41B) have been analysed as a demonstration of the system's potential to yield possible solutions for the behaviour of the spin vector during the pass. It is found to precess on a cone of semi-angle 39°±3° with precession period 8.7±0.7 min.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
