NSSDCA ID: 1963-053A-01
Mission Name: AD-AThis experiment was designed to determine nonsystematic changes of upper atmospheric density by conducting studies of the drag on a 3.6-m diameter, low-density sphere caused by short-term variations in solar activity. Density values near perigee were deduced from sequential observations of the spacecraft position using optical (Baker-Nunn camera network) and radio/radar tracking techniques. The general techniques used to deduce density values from satellite drag data can be found in L. G. Jacchia and J. Slowey, "Accurate drag determination for eight artificial satellites of atmospheric densities and temperatures," Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory special report no. 100, Cambridge, Mass., July 1962.
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Dr. Luigi G. Jacchia | Principal Investigator | Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory |