The AFCRL Lunar Laser Experiment
The AFCRL Lunar Laser Experiment
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Date
1974
Authors
Hunt, Mahlon S.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Terrestrial Sciences Laboratory. Air Force Cambridge Research Laboratories.
Abstract
Instrumentation for the AFCRL lunar laser experiment was developed specifically for lunar laser ranging. Jointly supported by NASA and AFCRL, the experiment fulfilled the scientific objective of ranging to lunar retroreflectors using telescope optics of only moderate aperture. Returned laser signals were detected from Apollo 11 and Apollo 15 retroreflectors. Because of the historical significance and the continued scientific interest in lunar laser ranging, this report documents AFCRL participation in the lunar laser optical ranging experiment. Emphasis is placed on the development of instrumentation. The formation operation, and termination of the AFCRL Lunar Laser Observatory are included. A system suitable for the continuation of this experiment was developed and tested.