A Novel Orbit Parameterization in Spherical Coordinates

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new way to describe orbits using spherical coordinates, making it easier to model and simulate orbital populations for astronomical surveys.

Contribution

It proposes a novel orbit parameterization in spherical coordinates that combines variable and invariant parameters, improving orbit modeling and simulation capabilities.

Findings

Enables precise placement of synthetic populations on the sky

Simplifies orbit modeling and analysis

Clarifies the physics of orbital motion

Abstract

We present a novel orbit parameterization in spherical coordinates. This parameterization enables the mixing of varying and invariant orbital parameters, and clarifies the physics of the orbit. It also simplifies the process of placing synthetic populations at exactly specified locations on the sky, which is particularly useful for survey design and simulation studies.