J2 term
Author: Tianjiang Shuo Website: https://cislunarspace.cn
Definition
The second-order zonal coefficient in the Earth's gravitational potential spherical harmonic expansion, reflecting the main perturbation from Earth's oblateness. J2 ≈ 1.08263×10⁻³ causes orbital plane precession and reduced orbital lifetime, essential for medium- and short-term orbit predictions.
Application Value
This orbital design method can be applied to transfer trajectory design, orbit keeping, and mission planning in cislunar space missions, improving spacecraft performance and mission flexibility.
References
- Vallado - 2022 - Fundamentals of astrodynamics and applications