Utilization of mars global surveyor accelerometer data for atmospheric modeling

摘要

To provide safe aerobraking for the Mars Global Surveyor mission, accelerometer data were utilized for near real time determination of atmospheric density and scale height. These measurements, when propely calibrated, will provide the initial data base for improvement of Mars thermospheric models. Calibration methods including adjustments for thruster firings and multi-body dynamics are presented. Some unanticipated results are shown of possible atmospheric "shocks" and standing planetary waves.