Description
Returns the times when the Spacecraft is at each of the cardinal points. The cardinal point calculations are based on the alpha angle, which is the angle between the Spacecraft's position and the Sun's position with respect to the Spacecraft's central body when both vectors are projected onto the Spacecraft's orbit plane. Note that the Sun is modeled as a point.
The mathematical definition of the alpha angle is:
Below is a diagram depicting how the alpha angle is defined:
A visual representation of the Alpha angle.
Timing Precision Mode
This page describes functionality in nanosecond timing precision mode.
Click here to see the documentation for this object in millisecond timing precision mode.
Note: This is an interval method. See the Interval Methods page for more information.
Note: This method has a state. See the Methods and Properties with State page for more information.
Method Signature
Spacecraft.CardinalPoints( |
) |
Return Value
Type: |
string |
Returns a string containing the cardinal point and the time when the calling Spacecraft is at that point. The different cardinal points are:
- Noon (alpha angle = 0)
- Dusk (alpha angle = 90)
- Midnight (alpha angle = 180)
- Dawn (alpha angle = 270)
Syntax
myString1 = mySpacecraft1.CardinalPoints(); |
This example demonstrates how to generate a report of times when a Spacecraft passes a cardinal point.
Output:
Note: Output generated using nanosecond timing precision mode.
|
See also
Spacecraft.SunTerminatorCrossingTimes
Coverage and Contact Analysis Guide