View Full Version : Will a warmer atmosphere affect LEO orbital decay?

2009-Jun-20, 10:32 AM
If the atmosphere heats up by a few degrees, then will it expand slightly upwards leading to increased orbital decay of LEO satellites?

2009-Jun-20, 11:01 AM
Yes, but perhaps not by a measurable amount. Orbital decay should be perhaps 1% less recently due to low sun spot activity.
Sun spots and CME = coronal mass ejection does expand the upper atmosphere significantly. Neil