Models for the gravitational field of Mars moon Phobos were developed using the latest shape model and assuming homogeneous density distribution.Three methods were applied in our study.Comparisons were made between these methods and all were shown to yield consistent results.Notably,the most accurate shape model of Phobos to date,complete up to degree and order 17 was used for the first time in our analysis.A set of spherical harmonic coefficients up to degree and order 17 were derived for the gravitational field of Phobos.Also considered was the gravitational field on the surface of Phobos.Typical characteristics as well as some pronounced surface features of this irregular-shaped small body could be conveniently identified.The results are readily applicable for such purposes as spacecraft orbit analysis and assessing the dynamical environment of Phobos.
SHI XianWILLNER KonradOBERST JürgenPING JinSongYE ShuHua
The first Chinese lunar orbiter Chang'E-1 is a successful mission with many fruitful results obtained in various disciplines. The scientific data acquired by the Chang'E-1 payloads can benefit studies of the lunar origin and evolution, as well as other relevant research areas, after careful validation of the data. Among the new results, the Chang'E-1 selenodetic products are continually uncovering characteristics of the lunar surface, undersurface and inner structure. Successful lunar orbiters such as the Clementine, Lunar Prospector, KAGUYA/SELENE, Chang'E-1, Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter and GRAIL have been revealing, with increasing clarity, global selenodetic characteristics with state-of-the-art fine resolution and high precision. In particular, the Chang'E-1 plays an important distinctive role in selenodetic exploration through enhancing lunar topography and gravity models. The gravity model has been successfully improved with a factor of two after applying the Chang'E-1 long-wavelength tracking data. Using the new models, some medium-scale lunar surface characteristics such as basins and volcanoes have been identified. Furthermore, the old mascon basins of Bouguer, gravity anomaly and craters have been discovered with the Chang'E-1 selenodetic data.
