Ronald J. Muellerschoen

Topex/Jason combined GPS/DORIS orbit determination in the tandem phase

Abstract In December 2001, the Jason-1 satellite was launched to extend the long-term success of the TOPEX/POSEIDON (T/P) oceanographic mission. The goals for the Jason-1 mission represent both a significant challenge and a rare opportunity for precise orbit determination (POD) analysts. Like its predecessor, Jason-1 carries three types of POD systems: a GPS receiver, a DORIS receiver and a laser retro-reflector. In view of the 1-cm goal for radial orbit accuracy, several major improvements have been made to the POD systems: 1) the GPS “BlackJack” TurboRogue Space Receiver (TRSR) tracks up to 12 GPS spacecraft using advanced codeless tracking techniques; 2) a newly developed DORIS receiver can track two ground beacons simultaneously with lower noise. In addition, the satellite itself features more straightforward attitude behavior, and a symmetric shape, simplifying the orbit determination models compared to T/P. On the other hand, the area-to-mass ratio for Jason-1 is larger, implying larger potential surface-force errors. This paper presents Jason-1 POD results obtained at JPL using the GIPSY-OASIS II (GOA) software package. Results from standard tests (orbit overlaps, laser control points) suggest that 1 to 2 cm radial orbit precision is already being achieved using the JPL reduced-dynamic estimation approach. We also report new DORIS POD strategies that make full profit of the additional number of common DORIS observations due to the T/P·Jason-1 tandem mode of orbit as well the additional dual-channel capability of the upgraded JASON receiver (allowing simultaneous tracking of two ground stations). New information on the satellites time scale is availed through this new estimation strategy. Results show that a significant improvement to DORIS-based orbits could be gained using this strategy. Building on these results, we have extended the GIPSY/OASIS 11 software capability to more fully exploit the combined benefit of both GPS and DORIS measurements from T/P and Jason-1 in their preliminary tandem mode. POD test results are used to demonstrate the accuracy of these orbits and to compare results in different cases: DORIS-alone, and GPS and DORIS together in both single- and multi-satellite modes. On the other, we have demonstrated and explained an anomalous behavior of the on-board oscillator when crossing the South Atlantic Anomaly region. Finally, plans for future software enhancements, processing strategies and modeling improvements are presented.