Probable connection between the drag of the International Space Station and various indexes that determine the state of space weather in 23–24 solar activity cycles

Abstract

The analysis of the ISS’s drag data during the period from 2005 to 2019 was carried out. In the analysis the B-star drag term was applied. This coefficient reflects the influence of changes in the state of the atmosphere on the movement of artificial objects in the Earth’s orbit. The time periods of the ISS movement when significant adjustments they were not made to the station’s orbit and the reception of planned missions were selected. The analysis of changes in the ISS’s drag was carried out. Data of solar and geomagnetic activity, including episodes of strong drag and periods of regular changes were used.