Approximate analytical theory of satellite orbit prediction presented in spherical coordinates frame (Q5960091)

The authors give comparative review of analytical theories for the motion of Earth satellites in quasi-circular orbits written in spherical coordinates. The theory of motion is developed for quasi-circular and quasi-equatorial orbits subjected to geopotential, luni-solar and solar radiation pressure perturbations. The intermediate orbit is Keplerian, and the equations of motion are solved by the Lyapunov-Poincaré small parameter method. Both resonant and nonresonant cases are considered. The results are useful for the development of a complete theory of weakly eccentric orbits.