]> 2026-04-15T05:25:01+00:00 J2 Dynamics and Formation Flight 0 en We study the dynamics of the relative motion of satellites in the gravitational field of the Earth, including the effects of the bulge of the Earth (the $J_2$ effect). Using Routh reduction and dynamical systems ideas, a method is found that locates orbits such that the cluster of satellites remains close with very little dispersing, even with no controls. The use of controls in the context of this natural dynamics is studied to maintain and achieve precision formations. W. S. Koon, J. E. Marsden, J. Masdemont and R. M. Murray 2001a Submitted, 2001 AIAA Guidance, Navigation and Control Conference kmmm01-gnc Conference Paper 2016-05-15T06:19:20Z 2457523.7634259 J2 Dynamics and Formation Flight Title 102 en Title