A critical assessment of satellite drag and atmospheric density modeling

•We consolidate existing data and clarify sources of uncertainty in atmospheric drag.•Our goal is to ensure researchers examine all relevant sources of error in analyses.•Sample values and tests are shown for several atmospheric models and indices.•We expose practical issues and their effect on propagation and orbit estimation.•How you use the data indices is as important as the model you select.

This paper examines atmospheric drag models and data usage involved with propagating near-Earth satellites. Many studies, and even some International standards try to promote one model over another, rather than identifying the behavior of the numerous parameters necessary to select the best model for a particular mission and application. We briefly summarize existing information, and quantify sources of uncertainty in satellite propagation resulting from several atmospheric models, or from the treatment of input data indices. The goal is for researchers to understand the relative impact of using different models and data indices so they can properly assess which model and data input to use.