High cross-section orbital retroreflector array design and testing

James W. Baer

doi:10.1117/12.138197

25 November 1992 High cross-section orbital retroreflector array design and testing

James W. Baer

Proceedings Volume 1697, Acquisition, Tracking, and Pointing VI; (1992) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138197
Event: Aerospace Sensing, 1992, Orlando, FL, United States

Abstract

The Relay Mirror Experiment (RME) required continuous illumination of its satellite by ground-based lasers. To maintain tracking, the system relied on an array of six-inch diameter hollow retroreflectors, mounted on the lower deck of the spacecraft. The retroreflectors are tailored to the mission, including compensation for their orbital velocity. The array has a lidar cross section of up to 3,000 square kilometers. This paper describes the design, construction, testing, and use of this retroreflector array.

Citation Download Citation

James W. Baer "High cross-section orbital retroreflector array design and testing", Proc. SPIE 1697, Acquisition, Tracking, and Pointing VI, (25 November 1992); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.138197

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