Overview: Tumbling Satellites - What They Are and How They Behave
Have you ever seen a flashing light in the night sky and thought it was an aircraft? It could actually be a tumbling satellite! In this article, we explore the phenomenon of tumbling satellites and how they behave in orbit.
Tumbling satellites, also known as flashing satellites, are objects in orbit around Earth that give off regular flashes of light due to the reflection of sunlight off of their surface. These flashes can be caused by specular reflection, which is the reflection of light off of a highly polished surface, or by diffuse reflection, which is the reflection of light off of a more matte surface. Tumbling satellites are often mistaken for UFOs because they can be visible in the night sky and may have a flashing or strobe-like appearance.
One way that amateur observers can contribute to the study of tumbling satellites is by measuring the flash period, or the time interval between two flashes of light. This can give a good approximation of the satellite’s rotation period. Measuring the flash period of a tumbling satellite requires observing the satellite for a period of time and counting the number of flashes. By dividing the total time by the number of flash periods, the true rotation period can be determined.
Tumbling satellites can be caused by a number of factors, including the insertion of the payload into orbit, the reflection of sunlight off of polished extensions such as antennas or solar panels, and fragments brought into orbit in an uncontrolled manner. The rotation of the satellites can be slowed down by forces such as the Earth’s magnetic field and air resistance, and over time the flash period may become so large that the satellite no longer appears to flash and appears steady.
Tumbling satellites are an interesting phenomenon that can be observed and studied by amateur astronomers. By measuring the flash period and collecting data on tumbling satellites, amateur astronomers can contribute to our understanding of these objects and their behavior in orbit.
In conclusion, tumbling satellites, also known as flashing satellites, are objects in orbit around Earth that give off regular flashes of light due to the reflection of sunlight off of their surface. These flashes can be caused by a number of factors including payload insertion, polished extensions, and fragments brought into orbit.
The rotation of the satellites can be slowed down over time by forces such as the Earth’s magnetic field and air resistance, and the flash period may become so large that the satellite no longer appears to flash and appears steady.
Tumbling satellites can be observed and studied by amateur astronomers to contribute to our understanding of these objects and their behavior in orbit. Whether you are an amateur astronomer or just enjoy looking up at the night sky, keep an eye out for these fascinating tumbling satellites.
