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Definition

Perigee

The point in an orbit closest to the central body. For Earth orbits, the lowest altitude above Earth's surface.

Related terms

Orbit DeterminationOD

The process of estimating a spacecraft's orbit from tracking observations. Uses ground-based radar, GPS, or optical meas...

Payload

The instrument or system that performs the mission's primary function. For Earth observation: cameras or sensors. For co...

Phase Gate

A review milestone where a program's readiness to proceed to the next development phase is evaluated. Standard gates inc...

Power Budget

An accounting of electrical power generation (solar panels, batteries) and consumption (subsystems, payload, heaters) ac...

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