Numerical analysis of propagation behaviour for high area-to-mass ratio objects in near-geostationary earth orbit

Ahmed Magdy Abdelaziz, Yehia Abdel Aziz, Igor Molotov, Shafeeq Kaheal Tealib

International Journal of Space Science and Engineering · 2025

Abstract

Understanding the dynamics of high area-to-mass ratio (HAMR) objects in near-geostationary earth orbit (GEO) is essential for space situational awareness (SSA). This study develops a numerical propagator to model the long-term behaviour of HAMR objects, incorporating solar radiation pressure, Earth's oblateness, and third-body gravitational effects. The propagator's results were compared with Vimpel catalog ephemeris data, focusing on the orbital evolution of debris with varying area-to-mass ratios. The analysis revealed strong agreement between the propagator and ephemeris data, though some discrepancies regarding eccentricity and semi-major axis were identified. Findings show that HAMR debris in GEO can persist for decades, maintaining a mean motion near GEO while exhibiting significant variations in orbital parameters. These results enhance understanding of HAMR dynamics, offering insights for improving SSA and developing debris mitigation strategies.

Keywords

How to cite

Abdelaziz, A. M., Aziz, Y. A., Molotov, I., & Tealib, S. K. (2025). Numerical analysis of propagation behaviour for high area-to-mass ratio objects in near-geostationary earth orbit. International Journal of Space Science and Engineering, 7(3), 273–288. https://doi.org/10.1504/ijspacese.2025.151015