Review of air density models for orbit determination

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This paper discusses an assessment of some of the thermospheric models considered during Indian Remote Sensing Satellite (IRS) Orbit Determination analysis. The impetus of such study is originated to choose an accurate and appropriate density model for precise orbit determination, orbit keeping and scene referencing. The accurate prediction of the motion of a near-Earth artificial satellite is primarily dependent upon two factors, one is how well the initial conditions can be estimated and the other is how well the dynamics are understood, modeled and integrated. It is also a well-known fact that atmospheric drag is one of the major contributors of uncertainty in prediction of the motion of the near-Earth satellite. In this paper basic thermospheric properties are explained. Comparisons of preselected density models, along with results, are presented. Orbit determination analysis to choose an accurate density model along with impact of solar activity on ground track control are briefly described. The MSIS-86 density model is chosen as being the best compromise between accuracy, flexibility and computational aspects.