On a power series expansion of the graviational potential of an inhomogeneous ellipsoid (Q1090108)

An algorithm is given for successively computing the partial derivatives of the gravitational potential of an inhomogeneous ellipsoid, whereby the power expansion of this function can be constructed. The relevant recurrence procedures are proved. The coefficients of the Taylor series of the potential can be used when analysing the stability of points of libration. Ways of applying the results are indicated. The case of a homogeneous ellipsoid was considered e.g. by the author, ibid. 49, 16-24 (1985; Zbl 0591.70026).