Orbital Dynamics
Definition
In this context, orbital dynamics refers to the systems of equations that determine where particular orbital bodies, in particular satellites, will be at all times. Reasoning about how orbital dynamics impact satellite mobility from the perspective of distinct points on the Earth surface requires understanding complex multi-body dynamics in three-dimensional space.
What happens?
When an LSN proposal fails to correctly account for orbital dynamics, any assumptions made about where satellites will be a particular points in time may be invalid.
Takeaway
LSN researchers must develop a basic understanding of common orbital dynamic concepts including the intimate relationship between space and time and specific forces that impact both short and long term evolution of orbital parameters (e.g., nodal regression).