The accurate determination of satellite orbits depends on an adequate accumulation of observations, a sound dynamical theory and a fairly sophisticated sequence of numerical computations. The particular patterns of observation, theory and computation are considered in relation to the objectives of orbit determination. Factors to be taken into account are the type, accuracy and spread of observations; perturbations of the orbit due to air drag, attraction of the Earth, Moon, and Sun, and solar radiation pressure; and the speed and cost of available computers. These factors, together with the overall objectives, determine the main features of the computation; whether to use special or general perturbation techniques, what length of orbit arc to use, what parameters to determine and how to present the results.
