Active laser ranging over planetary distances with millimeter accuracy

Abstract

Precision laser ranging between planetary bodies will allow advances in the study of fundamental physics and solar system dynamics. Current precision ranging techniques based on retro-reflectors are limited to the Earth-Moon distance. We present a method of active laser ranging over interplanetary distances with asynchronous two-way ranging. The method is validated in real time laboratory experiments and field tests. Sub-millimeter accuracy has been achieved in real-time active laser ranging for interplanetary distances, providing precision improvement well above three orders of magnitude over the current RF techniques. An instrument developed with the approach and deployed in future planetary missions will significantly advance planetary sciences and fundamental physics. For example, implemented in a future Mars lander mission our approach will clarify the Mars interior (liquid or solid), which is still an open question due to limitation of RF ranging precision although extensive efforts have been made over years with numerous missions since 1970s.