Abstract

We devised a unique array of cube-corner reflectors on a spherical satellite so that laser ranging could be used to detect the spin rate and the optical degradation. On the H2A-LRE satellite, there are reflectors made of synthetic silica and ones made of BK7 glass. We report that the degradation of the BK7 reflectors, as well as the spin rate of the satellite, can be monitored through a spectral analysis of laser-ranging data. The center-of-mass correction of the Laser Ranging Equipment satellite was calculated at 210 ± 10 mm for all possible systems and throughout the degradation process of the BK7 reflectors.

© 2002 Optical Society of America

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