About
ROSAT
ROSAT Home Page ROSAT
Images

next up previous contents index
Next: Strong X-ray Sources Up: 1.4 Observing Constraints Previous: Atomic Oxygen

Atmospheric Drag

 

Due to the low altitude of the ROSAT orbit, the orbit is effected by atmospheric drag. The magnitude of the effect is proportional to atmospheric density, which in turn depends upon solar activity. Due to the intrinsic unpredictability of solar activity, precise predictions of the exact spacecraft position during its orbit are consequently difficult to make on long time scales.



If you have problems/suggestions please send mail to rosat_svc@mpe-garching.mpg.de