The Laser Ranging Retroreflector is a device that reflects light so that the paths of the reflected rays are parallel to those of the original rays. Instruments placed on the lunar surface were used in experiments to reflect laser light back to Earth. The reflected light was used to provide precise measurements of the distance between the Earth and the Moon.
This particular laser ranging retroreflector mock-up was used by the Apollo 14 astronauts for training and NASA transferred it to the Smithsonian in 1972.
Display Status
This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Scientific Devices
Manufacturer
Bendix Corp.
Dimensions
3-D: 69.2 × 63.5 × 38.1cm, 37.6kg (2 ft. 3 1/4 in. × 2 ft. 1 in. × 1 ft. 3 in., 83lb.)
Materials
Aluminum Alloy
Mylar
Copper Alloy
Ferrous Alloy
Natural Fiber Thread
Fiberglass
Adhesive Tape
Plastic
Velcro
Paint
Inventory Number
A19721349000
Credit Line
Transferred from the NASA Manned Spacecraft Center
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.