Published in Scientific Papers. Series "Journal of Young Scientist", Vol. 6
Written by Simona-Mihaela IORGULESCU
The Moon has played an important role throughout the development of human civilization. It is the only permanent natural satellite of Earth and the closest astronomical object in the universe. Between the years of 1969 and 1971 the American and Soviet space programs left a total of five retroreflectors on the lunar surface. Astronomers have been able to use powerful lasers and telescopes to perform highly accurate measurements of the distance to these artifacts. The data that have been collected have led to significant improvements in the understanding of some aspects regarding the Earth-Moon system. Lunar Laser Ranging (LLR) has influenced astronomy, lunar science, gravitational physics, geodesy, geodynamics and numerous other fields. The purpose of this research is to state the historical development of Lunar Laser Ranging, what is involved in this process, the scientific accomplishments and the importance of this experiment for future explorations.
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