Background
The Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) technique was introduced in 1964 and remains one of the most accurate space-based geodetic techniques, with continuously improving measurement accuracy. The main scientific contributions of SLR are the monitoring of Earth rotation parameters (polar motion and length of day), three-dimensional deformations of the solid Earth (station coordinates and velocities), time-variable coordinates of the geocenter or static and time-variable coefficients of the Earth's gravity field. We regularly provide these products as part of an official SLR analysis center for the International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) and thus also contribute to the development of new international coordinate systems such as the “International Terrestrial Reference Frame” (ITRF).
SLR observations are obtained in a worldwide network of SLR stations. One of these stations has been operating continuously in Potsdam since January 2003 and is to be replaced at the end of 2027 by an innovative further development (including the first SLR observations at MHz frequency) on top of the then renovated Helmert Tower.
In addition, we are currently participating with our station in accurate long distance optical time transfer experiments.
Scientific key questions
- How can we further improve our operational products for the ILRS?
- What are the advantages of observing at MHz instead of KHz frequencies at our station in the future? Should the ILRS network adapt to this in the medium term?
- How exactly can time be transferred on the ground or via space?
Related projects
- The Satellite Laser Ranging Station Potsdam
- Renewal of the SLR Station
- ILRS-AC | ILRS Analysis Center
- Clock Metrology | Accurate long distance optical time transfer
