Fundamentals of Astrodynamics and Applications (Fifth Edition)

The increased power of microcomputers has changed the study of perturbations perhaps more than any other subfield of astrodynamics, but students and practitioners still need a compendium of well-documented algorithms to use that power. Vallado's book is just such a compendium, integrating two-body dynamics with extensive perturbation methods and real-world applications while consolidating recent literature about coordinates and fundamental concepts. It attempts to use new programming capabilities to exploit the keys for the future-- standardizing, documenting, modularity, efficiency, and maintainability. Ample algorithms numbered and handily summarized at the beginning of the book. Extensive and reworked examples and derivations have been included to save time often spent recreating something that has already been proven. The author cites many references and alternative methods to expand understanding of the topics discussed. We would like to thank Dave Vallado for this most accomplished and comprehensive piece of work. If astrodynamics is your thing…you will be thanking him too. Table of Contents Equations of Motion Kepler's Equation and Kepler's Problem Coordinate and Time Systems Observations Celestial Phenomena Orbital Maneuvering Initial Orbit Determination Special Perturbation Tecniques General Perturbation Techniques Orbit Determination and Estimation Mission Analysis Interplanetary Mission Analysis Appendix A: Dictionary of Symbols Appendix B: Modeling the Atmosphere Appendix C: Mathematical Fundamentals Appendix D: Constants and Expansions