RE: Updated X-37B OTV-1 elements

From: Ted Molczan (ssl3molcz@rogers.com)
Date: Fri May 28 2010 - 13:41:57 UTC

  • Next message: Peter Wakelin: "SATOBS 2010 May 27-28"

     Derek Breit asked:
    
    > A Question... Are Binocular observations of this object still needed??
    
    Accurate observations of all objects are always needed, regardless of
    observing method. In the orbital analyses, observations made using
    binoculars, telescopes and cameras co-exist very well.
    
    With my 25x100 binoculars, I find that I achieve reasonable accuracy
    observing transits between pairs of stars well under 1 deg apart, and very
    good accuracy with ~0.2 deg pairs or closer. Appulses of ~0.03 deg or less
    also yield good results.
    
    If the orbital elements are reasonably accurate, I review each pass in
    advance to get an idea of the quality of available star pairs and appulses.
    If I know that a pass will offer several transits of close pairs and/or
    close appulses, that are likely to be visible in the expected sky
    conditions, then I may skip some of the less favourable stars I encounter. I
    always plan to intercept the satellite at the first good transit or appulse,
    to improve my probability of making at least one accurate observation. Since
    the first stars are known, I need not record or try to memorize any
    subsequent ones I use, because ObsReduce will help me find them, based on
    the time of the observation, and taking into account the difference between
    observed and predicted time of the first observation.
    
    There is no one right way to make binocular observations, and no two
    observers use exactly the same method, yet skilled observers tend to achieve
    similar accuracy.
    
    Ted Molczan
    
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