Multistep methods of numerical integration using back-corrections

Abstract

A class of linear multistep methods is proposed for the solution of the equations of motion of certain dynamical systems encountered in celestial mechanics and astrodynamics. These methods are distinguished from the classical predictor-corrector methods in that they permit 'back-corrections' of the solution to be made. As the integration advances in time, the numerical solution is corrected or improved at certain points in the past. The enhanced numerical stability of these methods allows the meaningful application of high-order algorithms. Consequently, step sizes larger than those attainable with the classical methods may be adopted, and greater overall efficiency may be realized. These methods are applied to the problem of determining the orbit of an artificial satellite, and the results are compared with those obtained using classical methods.