Yes - it is that simple, you can modify an element set as you suggest. There are two parameters that, when changed, affect ground track. They are the epoch, and the RA of the Ascending Node. Be aware that some tracking programs will reject an element set if a check sum is incorrect so you may need to recalculate one or both lines. Alternatively, for an approximation, use a rev 0 element set for a Shuttle going to the ISS or Mir (choose a set after the OMS-1 burn). The same goes for Hubble - dig out an element set for the launch mission, or one of the servicing flights. You will need to use your tracking program in simulation or "historic" mode in order to display the track at the date/time of launch. Bob Christy > -----Original Message----- > From: Tom Wagner [mailto:sciteach@mchsi.com] > Sent: 02 October 2006 01:25 > To: SeeSat-L@satobs.org > Subject: Can I modify a TLE? > > Hello, > > I want to use a TLE with a ground track program like Orbitron > to simulate > the path that a satellite takes when it passes directly over > the launch > facility from which it began its journey at Cape Canaveral. > Should I try to > find an archived TLE or can I simply change the Epoch Date > and Julian Date > Fraction to a certain day to make the pass over that > location? [I doubt it's > that simple.] If that is what I should do, for the ISS and > Hubble, what > times and dates should I aim for? It doesn't have to be > precise. I just want > to show students where the Hubble and ISS go after they pass > over Cape > Canaveral. > > Because the inclination does not change, for an ascending > pass, the path it > takes toward the zenith over one particular place would > always be the same, > right? > > Thanks ahead of time! > > Tom Iowa USA > > > -------------------------------------------------------------- > ----------- > Subscribe/Unsubscribe info, Frequently Asked Questions, > SeeSat-L archive: > http://www.satobs.org/seesat/seesatindex.html > ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe/Unsubscribe info, Frequently Asked Questions, SeeSat-L archive: http://www.satobs.org/seesat/seesatindex.html
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Mon Oct 02 2006 - 04:21:01 EDT