The Dynamics of Natural Satellites of the Planets

The Dynamics of Natural Satellites of the Planets is an accessible reference for understanding the celestial mechanics of planetary moons through the lens of both theory and observation. Based on decades of research by the author, the book utilizes state-of-the-art observations of the natural satellites in the solar system to establish models, measurements and calculations to better understand the theory of the satellite movement and dynamics. It presents an extensive set of study methods and results on the motion of natural satellites of the planets and includes reviews and references to related publication for further explanation. By relating observations to numerical theory, the book serves as a quick and comprehensive reference for applying the theory of orbital dynamics to observational data on orbits and physical properties of the natural satellites in order to formulate state-of-the-art explanations and models, particularly for determining the parameters of satellite motion. - Combines astronomy and celestial mechanics, providing astrometric data from observations to inform methods and models for predicting natural satellite dynamics - Includes both theory and observation in one place and presents new models based on observations - Organized into small sections, each providing specific measurements, calculations or models, making it a quick and comprehensive reference

Nikolay V. Emelyanov is Professor of Physical and Mathematical Sciences for the Sternberg State Astronomical Institute at Lomonosov Moscow State University and Chief of the Celestial Mechanics department, a position he has held since 1992. Author of over 100 scientific works, including two monographs in Russian. His research interests focus on satellite motion and natural satellites of the planets. His doctoral dissertation in 1986 was on 'The theory of motion of distant satellites: Building an analytical theory of motion and differential refinement of the orbits of artificial Earth satellites using computers. The theory of satellite motion he created was the most advanced in the world. It has found applications in refining satellite orbits based on laser observations. Since 1996, he has been participating with the Paris Institute of Celestial Mechanics to create a database of natural planetary satellites in the framework of international programs."