Multipolar corrections for Lense-Thirring precession

Abstract

For stationary axially symmetric spacetimes we find a simple expression for the Lense-Thirring precession in terms of the Ernst potential. This expression is used to compute, in the weak field approximation, the major non-spherical contributions to the precession of a gyroscope orbiting the Earth. We reproduce previously known results and give a new estimation for non-spherical contributions.