Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

How does a laser beam measure the distance to the Moon so accurately?

April 26, 2017accurately beam distance laser measure moon

0

Posted

How does a laser beam measure the distance to the Moon so accurately?

1 Answer

0

Posted

In 1969, the Apollo 11 astronauts placed the first of four mirrors on the Moon that reflect back laser beams to reveal the distance to the Earth. The beams travel at the speed of light and their journey times are measured to within a few million-millionths of a second, the distance can be recorded to within a few millimetres.