Fundamental coordinate ties using laser ranging data

Abstract

One of the main goals of fundamental astronomy is to allow us to locate ourselves accurately in space and time. Each observational technique cannot supply all of the answers all of the time, and the joining of results from different techniques requires a true understanding of the particular reference frame which underlies each one. In this paper we try to state the present situation in our attempts to tie artificial satellite and lunar laser ranging data through the construction of stations designed to make both kinds of observations. This type of development strengthens both data types and eases their combination with other data types.