Orbital perturbation

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In the field of astrodynamics, orbital perturbation is a phenomenon whereby the orbit of an object or celestial body is altered by one or more external influences.

In the case of man-made satellites, orbital perturbation may be a consequence of atmospheric drag or solar radiation pressure, whilst in the case of celestial bodies, orbital perturbation may be caused by comets, asteroids, solar flares and other celestial phenomena.

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