A nonsingular approach in satellite theory

Abstract

Nonsingular differential equations for the variation of variables suggested by Lagrange for the motion of an artificial satellite under the influence of the Earth gravitational field are developed keeping the usual orbital elements. It is shown that no singularities are present in these equations except for the case of a retrograde equatorial orbit. Equations are developed for secular, long period and short period perturbations. The advantage of retaining the usual orbital elements is to avoid a complex and cumbersome form of the equations.