Astrodynamical Space Test of Relativity Using Optical Devices I (ASTROD I)

Paper number

IAC-09.A2.1.8

Author

Mr. Hanns Selig, ZARM - University of Bremen, Germany

Coauthor

Prof. Hansjörg Dittus, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Germany

Year

2009

Abstract

ASTROD I is a planned interplanetary space mission with multiple
goals. The primary aims are: to test general relativity with an improvement in
sensitivity of over three orders of magnitude, improving our understanding
of gravity and aiding the development of a new quantum gravity theory;
to measure key solar system parameters with increased accuracy, advancing
solar physics and our knowledge of the solar system; and to measure the
time rate of change of the gravitational constant with an order of magnitude
improvement and the anomalous Pioneer acceleration, thereby probing dark
matter and dark energy gravitationally. It is an international project, with
major contributions from Europe and China and is envisaged as the first in
a series of ASTROD missions. ASTROD I will consist of one spacecraft
carrying a telescope, four lasers, two event timers and a clock. Two-way, twowavelength
laser pulse ranging will be used between the spacecraft in a solar
orbit and deep space laser stations on Earth, to achieve the ASTROD I goals.
A second mission, ASTROD (ASTROD II) is envisaged as a three-spacecraft
mission which would test General Relativity to 1 ppb, enable detection of
solar g-modes, measure the solar Lense–Thirring effect to 10 ppm, and probe
gravitational waves at frequencies below the LISA bandwidth. In the third
phase (ASTROD III or Super-ASTROD), larger orbits could be implemented
to map the outer solar system and to probe primordial gravitational-waves at
frequencies below the ASTROD II bandwidth.

Abstract document

IAC-09.A2.1.8.pdf

Manuscript document

IAC-09.A2.1.8.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).

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