Millimeter Laser Ranging to the Moon: a comprehensive theoretical model for advanced data analysis

TL;DR

This paper presents a comprehensive theoretical model for lunar laser ranging that enhances the precision of lunar distance measurements and supports fundamental physics tests, geophysics, and future lunar missions.

Contribution

It introduces new methods and approaches for developing an advanced mathematical model based on general relativity and current standards for high-precision lunar laser ranging.

Findings

Approaching one millimeter measurement precision.

Enhanced theoretical model incorporating geophysical and relativistic effects.

Supports fundamental tests of gravity and lunar science.

Abstract

Lunar Laser Ranging (LLR) measurements are crucial for advanced exploration of the evolutionary history of the lunar orbit, the laws of fundamental gravitational physics, selenophysics and geophysics as well as for future human missions to the Moon. Current LLR technique measures distance to the Moon with a precision approaching one millimeter that strongly demands further significant improvement of the theoretical model of the orbital and rotational dynamics of the Earth-Moon system. This model should inevitably be based on the theory of general relativity, fully incorporate the relevant geophysical/selenophysical processes and rely upon the most recent IAU standards in order to give us the opportunity to perform the most precise fundamental test of general relativity in the solar system in robust and physically-adequate way. The talk discusses new methods and approaches in developing such a mathematical model.