Atmospheric Density

Atmospheric density, a crucial factor in spacecraft navigation and orbital prediction, is the subject of ongoing research aimed at improving its accurate estimation and forecasting. Current efforts focus on developing advanced models, including neural networks (like LSTMs and transformers), and Kalman filters to adapt to real-time atmospheric variations and uncertainties, particularly those caused by solar activity. These improved models enhance the precision of spacecraft entry and trajectory control, leading to safer and more efficient space missions, and also contribute to better space situational awareness by improving predictions of orbital decay.