2022-05-13, 07:39 PM
Hi BMD,
I used elements from the MPC's NEAs at Today's Epoch for 2022 May 10 as shown in the OI dialog of the head post. The epoch is 2022 May 11 0000 UT, so close to the current date. That's the advantage of downloading the MPC file for NEAs at Today's Epoch. Plus, it looks like they do the perturbation calculations, too.
In checking out the MPC site I found that they also produce files of elements for NEOs at today's date and every date ±15 days. Where these are located on their site, I don't know. I think having ST4v download the file for Today's epoch is sufficient for what I do, but to actually observe these objects may require better accuracy.
Did you check out the Orbit Viewer section on the CNEOS website? It's neat to watch the MP approach the earth's position.
Phil S.
I used elements from the MPC's NEAs at Today's Epoch for 2022 May 10 as shown in the OI dialog of the head post. The epoch is 2022 May 11 0000 UT, so close to the current date. That's the advantage of downloading the MPC file for NEAs at Today's Epoch. Plus, it looks like they do the perturbation calculations, too.
In checking out the MPC site I found that they also produce files of elements for NEOs at today's date and every date ±15 days. Where these are located on their site, I don't know. I think having ST4v download the file for Today's epoch is sufficient for what I do, but to actually observe these objects may require better accuracy.
Did you check out the Orbit Viewer section on the CNEOS website? It's neat to watch the MP approach the earth's position.
Phil S.