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Implementation of Gauss-Jackson Integration for Orbit Propagation

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Abstract

The Gauss-Jackson multi-step predictor-corrector method is widely used in numerical integration problems for astrodynamics and dynamical astronomy. The U.S. space surveillance centers have used an eighth-order Gauss-Jackson algorithm since the 1960s. In this paper, we explain the algorithm including a derivation from first principals and its relation to other multi-step integration methods. We also study its applicability to satellite orbits including its accuracy and stability.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Analytical Graphics Inc., 220 Valley Creek Blvd., Exton, PA, 19341, USA

    Matthew M. Berry (Astrodynamics Engineer)

  2. Naval Research Laboratory, Code 8233, Washington, DC, 20375-5355, USA

    Liam M. Healy (Research Physicist)

Authors
  1. Matthew M. Berry
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  2. Liam M. Healy
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Matthew M. Berry.

Additional information

Based on paper AAS 01-426 presented at the AAS/AIAA Astrodynamics Specialists Conference, Quebec City, Canada, July 30–August 2, 2001.

This work was completed while the first author was a Graduate Assistant in the Department of Aerospace and Ocean Engineering at Virginia Tech and an employee of the Naval Research Laboratory.

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Berry, M.M., Healy, L.M. Implementation of Gauss-Jackson Integration for Orbit Propagation. J of Astronaut Sci 52, 331–357 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03546367

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03546367

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