Melaine Saillenfest et al. (2016)
Secular models for trans-Neptunian dynamics to map long-term regular motion, including Lidov–Kozai-type secular resonances.
The work develops secular (orbit-averaged) models tailored to trans-Neptunian objects to describe their long-term, regular evolution beyond Neptune. In the Lidov–Kozai resonance context, such models help isolate and understand coupled eccentricity–inclination cycles and long-lived stable islands without following every orbital revolution. The novelty is the focus on secular modeling as a practical tool for the outer Solar System, enabling efficient exploration of parameter space and identification of where regular secular behavior should occur. These results support interpreting the architecture and stability of distant small-body populations through the lens of secular resonances.
The authors build and analyze secular, orbit-averaged dynamical models for the long-term evolution of orbits beyond Neptune.
Celestial mechanics of secular perturbation theory, orbital element evolution, and Lidov–Kozai resonance basics in hierarchical/perturbed systems.