Satellite laser ranging work at the Goddard Space Flight CenterThe pulsed-laser satellite ranging systems presently being operated by the Goddard Space Flight Center are described along with their range and accuracy capabilities. The major subsystems are outlined, operation of the fixed system and the two mobile systems is discussed, and the performance of all three systems is evaluated. It is noted that these systems have an accuracy of better than 10 cm on a carefully surveyed range as well as in regular satellite ranging operations and are capable of ranging to all currently launched retroreflector-equipped satellites with the exception of Timation III. Future improvements discussed include a third mobile system which will be able to range distant satellites, such as Timation III, with an accuracy of better than 5 cm and the use of a frequency-doubled Nd:YAG laser in place of the ruby lasers now being employed.
Document ID
19760048912
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Mcgunigal, T. E. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Carrion, W. J. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Caudill, L. O. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Grant, C. R. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Johnson, T. S. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Premo, D. A. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Spadin, P. L. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, MD, United States)
Winston, G. C. (NASA Goddard Space Flight Center Greenbelt, Md., United States)
Date Acquired
August 8, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1975
Subject Category
Space Communications, Spacecraft Communications, Command And Tracking