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This is a Experimental Study study.

September 27, 2025

Design of Retro-Reflector Array for Very High Orbit Satellites Based on Automated Acquisition of Satellite Laser Ranging Echoes

Key Points

The study demonstrates the capability to capture a reflector array of 17 corner cubes with 38 mm apertures.
Experimental verification confirmed successful echo signal reception from a geosynchronous orbit satellite during testing.
New design principles for retro-reflectors were applied specifically to the Tianqin satellite for improved orbit determination.
Key findings indicate that SLR technology continues to evolve to meet the demands of deep space missions.

Abstract

Abstract As deep space missions expand, the demand for high-precision laser ranging continues to grow. Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) technology plays a critical role in achieving precise orbit determination for these missions. To address the challenge of capturing very high orbit satellites during SLR, this study introduces new design constraints for retro-reflectors and applies these principles to the design of the Tianqin satellite's retro-reflector array, using 38~mm retro-reflectors as a reference. The results confirm that the Tianqin Station is capable of successfully capturing a reflector array consisting of 17 corner cubes, each with an aperture of 38 mm. An equivalent capture verification experiment was subsequently conducted using a geosynchronous orbit satellite, where the echo signal intensity was attenuated via a defocused laser ranging system.

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