Competitive symbolic integration in satellite dynamics

In this work, we shall compare a symbolic integration with a numerical inte gration of a test problem arising in satellite dynamics. An equatorial sate llite with the J(2) effect in BF variables will be taken. As symbolic integ rator, we shall take PerNewton(C), a Maple V package implemented by the aut hors. Classical and contrasted numerical methods will be chosen to perform the numerical integration. We pointed out the advantages of symbolic integr ation as an efficient method for making very long time predictions on the o rbit of the satellite. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.