Re: Molniya 3-11 decay

JAY RESPLER (JRespler@surfnj.net)
Tue, 15 Sep 1998 02:30:46 -0400

Björn Gimle wrote:
> Yes, Moon/Sun gravitational disturbances generally cause perigee to oscillate
> a few hundred kilometers. Occasionally, these cooperate to dip it lower, and
> atmosphere starts lowering the apogee.
> 
> This decreases the gravitational disturbances, and there are not enough
> forces left to raise the perigee again, and the spiral has begun.

Do Molniya keep their special orbit by rocket firings during their 
lifetime, or are natural forces enough to hold them ?

-- 
Jay Respler
--
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