Simulating Realistic Satellite Orbits in the Undergraduate Classroom

Abstract

Physics students are intrigued by activities in space. To link this natural curiosity with solid problem-solving skills, we developed a spreadsheet simulation for satellites moving through an atmosphere of variable density. The simulation-laboratory has been used in U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) introductory physics classes for several semesters. Spreadsheet variants have also been used in a USAFA advanced division space physics class, a high school advanced placement physics class, and in the Center for Integrated Space Weather Modeling graduate summer school course.