Precise orbit determination for TOPEX/Poseidon using GPS-SST data

Abstract The TOPEX/Poseidon (T/P) altimeter satellite launched in August 1992 is equipped with an experimental Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. The major goal of the GPS experiment is to demonstrate the GPS system for precise orbit determination of low Earth satellites. The GPS-SST data as obtained from the T/P onboard receiver have been processed in a dynamic orbit determination. In addition, the GPS ephemerides and GPS clock parameters as provided by IGS were used as fixed parameters. The orbit accuracy is assessed using a number of tests. These include external comparisons and analysis of data residuals and orbit overlaps. The orbit determination technique has yielded orbits with an estimated accuracy of about 3 cm in the radial component.