Testing relativity with solar system dynamicsA major breakthrough is described in the accuracy of Solar System dynamical tests of relativistic gravity. The breakthrough was achieved by factoring in ranging data from Viking Landers 1 and 2 from the surface of Mars. Other key data sources included optical transit circle observations, lunar laser ranging, planetary radar, and spacecraft (Mariner 9 to Mars and Mariner 10 to Mercury). The Solar System model which is used to fit the data and the process by which such fits are performed are explained and results are discussed. The results are fully consistent with the predictions of General Relativity.
Document ID
19860027605
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Hellings, R. W. (California Institute of Technology Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, United States)