NSSDCA ID: 1976-039A-01
Mission Name: LAGEOSLaser retroreflectors covering a very dense spherical satellite were used to provide a permanent reference point in a very stable orbit for precision earth-dynamics measurements. This sphere was machined largely from depleted uranium, weighed about 411 kg, and was composed of a cubical inner core with six attached spherical caps. Each of the spherical caps had machined cavities to accommodate the retroreflectors. The satellite was placed at a high orbital inclination at an altitude of about 5000 km and tracked by a network of 13 laser stations operated by both U.S. and foreign agencies. The performance in orbit is limited only by degradation of the retroreflectors, and a minimum lifetime of 50 years is expected.
Mass: 411 kg
Questions and comments about this experiment can be directed to: Coordinated Request and User Support Office
Name | Role | Original Affiliation | |
---|---|---|---|
Dr. Henry H. Plotkin | Other Investigator | NASA Goddard Space Flight Center | |
Mr. Chris C. Stephanides | Principal Investigator | NASA Goddard Space Flight Center |