Extending the range

摘要

Almost immediately after the first successful demonstration of the functions of a laser, the technology was used to carry out satellite and lunar laser ranging experiments at a level of accuracy measured in metres. Of course, the technique continues to develop and to reinvent itself; the powerful concept of a two-way range estimate via a time-of-flight measurement of ultra short laser pulses has turned LR into a standard tool of modern global geodesy. Extending the capabilities and accuracy of this powerful technique is therefore an on-going process within the International Laser Ranging Service.