LAGEOS I once-per-revolution force due to solar heating

摘要: Photon thrust from the solar heating of LAGEOS I satellite appears to explain much eccentricity variations seen in satellite's orbital elements. We invoke a thermal model which photon is directed along spin axis and functionally depends only on cosine angle between Sun's position axis. calibrated amplitude force 1980–1983 equivalent along-track acceleration derived observed perturbations; during this time assumed be known that at orbit injection. The simple model, plus later positions obtained Sun glint data (which show precessing), give reasonable agreement with period 1988–1995. Thus seem due do not have geophysical origin (atmospheric tides) as has been proposed. However, our does appear highest peaks deepest troughs acceleration, indicating need for better consideration other forces, such anisotropic reflection.