Dynamical properties of the Molniya satellite constellation: long-term evolution of the semi-major axis

We describe the phase space structures related to semi-major axis of Molniya-like satellites subject tesseral and lunisolar resonances. In particular, questions answered in this contribution are: (1) we study indirect interplay critical inclination resonance on semi-geosynchronous using a hierarchy more realistic dynamical systems, thus discussing dynamics beyond integrable approximation. By introducing ad hoc tractable models averaged over fast angles, (2) numerically demarcate hyperbolic organising long-term via Lyapunov indicators cartography. Based publicly available two-line elements orbital data, (3) identify two satellites, namely Molniya 1-69 1-87, displaying fingerprints consistent with associated set. Finally, (4) computations their maps highlight that spacecraft are trapped within tangle. This research therefore reports evidence actual artificial near-Earth environment whose ruled by manifolds resonant mechanisms. The tools, formalism methodologies present exportable other region similar commensurabilities as geosynchronous region.