The Orbital Evolution of Two Sounding Satellites and Analysis of the Accuracy of Orbit Determination

The satellites TC-1 and TC-2 are the two Chinese satellites with great elliptical orbits which are still in orbit around the earth at present. Since the launch the orbits of the two satellites have continuously evolved, which has a certain effect on the orbit determination and prediction precision. The regularities of the orbital evolution of the two sounding satellites are qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed. Under the current tracking mode the corresponding prediction precision of orbit determination is analyzed based on the different stages of the orbital evolution, thereby providing the basis for the adjustment of planning mode by the satellite application departments and the guarantee of normal satellite payload. Finally, the orbital lifetimes of the two satellites are predicted through the trend of the orbital evolution.