Geodesy and Geophysics Laboratory

Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR)

Class:

Flight Project

Status:

Operational

Organizations:

WEBSITE:

Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) is a fundamental measurement technique used by the NASA Space Geodesy Program to support both national and international programs in Earth dynamics, ocean and ice surface altimetry, navigation and positioning, and technology development. NASA continues to maintain and operate five trailer-based Mobile Laser Ranging Stations (MOBLAS) and two compact Transportable Laser Ranging Systems (TLRS) at fixed sites.

      Co-location of Two Satellite Laser Ranging Systems at Greenbelt, Maryland (TLRS-4, MOBLAS-7) firing at the same satellite target. TLRS-4 (system on left) and MOBLAS-7 (system in center).