Method for finding the classical Keplarian elements

[dhaxton]

Method for finding the classical Keplarian elements of the object:

1) Obtain the Lat. and Long. of all three camera sights.
2) Obtain the R.A. and Dec of the streaks, note the start time of each picture, duration of picture, and end time. Make a table of these values.
3) Convert the R.A and Dec values to Az-El coordinates for all pictures.
4) Using an early orbit prediction program (using angles only solution) extract the rough estimate of the classical Keplarian elements.
5) Now run the estimated Keplarian elements through a least squared differential correction program (using a angles only solution) to improve the original estimates. Hopefully it will converge.
6) It is now possible to compute the height, slant rage, velocity and lat/long of the object at each observation.

[Dr. Pepper]

If you are going to praise Johann Kepler, at least spell his name right and please show enough respect to get the formula correct. what makes you think this is an elipse anyway? These are the basic "Keplerian"elements

Epoch
Orbital Inclination
Right Ascension of Ascending Node (R.A.A.N.)
Argument of Perigee
Eccentricity
Mean Motion
Mean Anomaly
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