NASA's Satellite Laser Ranging Systems for the 21^st Century

Area of Science:

• Geodesy
• Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR)
• Space Geodesy

Background:

• NASA's legacy satellite laser ranging (SLR) network has been vital for the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) for over 40 years.
• The existing network is nearing end-of-life, necessitating the development of new systems to meet evolving scientific demands.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce the new generation of Space Geodesy Satellite Laser Ranging (SGSLR) systems being developed by NASA.
• To outline the design, requirements, testing, and expected performance of the SGSLR systems for the NASA Space Geodesy Project (SGP).

Main Methods:

• Development of nine subsystems for the SGSLR systems, focusing on robustness and 24/7 operational capability with minimal human intervention.
• Designing for sub-millimeter precision ranging to meet the aggressive performance requirements of tracking numerous targets.
• Leveraging lessons learned from legacy systems and a successful prototype to inform the new network's design.

Main Results:

• The SGSLR systems are designed as state-of-the-art, kilohertz laser ranging systems.
• The new systems aim to support the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) goals for 1 mm position accuracy and 0.1 mm/year ITRF stability.
• Anticipated system performance will be detailed, focusing on reliability and precision.

Conclusions:

• The new SGSLR network is essential for maintaining and advancing the ITRF.
• These systems will ensure continued high-precision geodetic measurements critical for global reference frames.
• The SGSLR systems represent a significant upgrade in NASA's space geodesy capabilities.