Independent analysis of the orbits of Pioneer 10 and 11

TL;DR

This paper presents an independent orbit analysis of Pioneer 10 and 11 spacecraft using Doppler data, confirming the anomalous acceleration and introducing telemetry data for improved systematic effects modeling.

Contribution

It introduces new analysis tools that incorporate telemetry data for spin, maneuvers, and systematic effects, enhancing prior orbit determination methods.

Findings

Confirmed the anomalous acceleration of Pioneer 10 and 11

Placed limits on secondary acceleration (jerk) terms

Developed tools for future analysis of recovered data

Abstract

Independently developed orbit determination software is used to analyze the orbits of Pioneer 10 and 11 using Doppler data. The analysis takes into account the gravitational fields of the Sun and planets using the latest JPL ephemerides, accurate station locations, signal propagation delays (e.g., the Shapiro delay, atmospheric effects), the spacecrafts' spin, and maneuvers. New to this analysis is the ability to utilize telemetry data for spin, maneuvers, and other on-board systematic effects. Using data that was analyzed in prior JPL studies, the anomalous acceleration of the two spacecraft is confirmed. We are also able to put limits on any secondary acceleration (i.e., jerk) terms. The tools that were developed will be used in the upcoming analysis of recently recovered Pioneer 10 and 11 Doppler data files.