Reduced-dynamic orbit determination and the use of accelerometer data

Reduced-dynamic orbit determination for low Earth orbiting satellites is usually performed to obtain trajectories of highest accuracy without making use of additional accelerometer data. We use efficient stochastic orbit modeling techniques based on least squares estimation to compare estimated piecewise constant accelerations of the CHAMP satellite with measurements from the STAR accelerometer to have an alternative orbit quality assessment. Stimulated by such comparisons, simulated CHAMP data are used to discuss the mutual benefits of a statistically correct combination of GPS phase and accelerometer measurements with accelerometer data treated as additional observations.