# LARES-2

> satellite

**Wikidata**: [Q116255536](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q116255536)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lares-2

## Summary
LARES-2 is an Italian satellite launched in 2022 to study gravitational physics and test Einstein's theory of general relativity. It is the successor to the LARES satellite and operates in a medium Earth orbit, equipped with retroreflectors for laser ranging. Operated by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), it aims to measure frame-dragging effects with high precision.

## Key Facts
- **Launch Date**: July 13, 2022, aboard the Vega C rocket from the Ensemble de Lancement Vega in French Guiana.
- **Operator**: Italian Space Agency (ASI).
- **Mass**: 297.5 kilograms.
- **Diameter**: 0.424 meters.
- **Orbit**: Medium Earth orbit with a semi-major axis of 12,267 kilometers and an orbital inclination of 70.16 degrees.
- **COSPAR ID**: 2022-080A.
- **Predecessor**: LARES (2012).
- **Launch Vehicle**: Vega C, developed by the European Space Agency (ESA).

## FAQs
### Q: What is the primary mission of LARES-2?
A: LARES-2 tests predictions of Einstein's general relativity, particularly the frame-dragging effect, by measuring the curvature of spacetime around Earth using laser ranging.

### Q: How does LARES-2 differ from its predecessor, LARES?
A: LARES-2 has an improved orbital configuration and uses the upgraded Vega C launch vehicle, enabling more precise measurements of gravitational effects.

### Q: Who operates LARES-2?
A: The satellite is operated by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), with international collaboration for data analysis.

## Why It Matters
LARES-2 plays a critical role in advancing fundamental physics by testing Einstein's theory of general relativity with unprecedented precision. Its mission to measure frame-dragging—a phenomenon where spacetime is "dragged" around a rotating mass like Earth—helps validate or refine our understanding of gravity. By orbiting at a specific altitude and inclination, LARES-2 minimizes perturbations from non-gravitational forces, ensuring highly accurate laser ranging measurements. This research contributes to broader efforts in geodesy, astrophysics, and satellite technology, supporting applications like navigation systems and Earth observation. As a low-cost, high-impact mission, LARES-2 demonstrates efficient scientific collaboration and innovation in space-based experimentation.

## Notable For
- First satellite launched on the Vega C rocket, marking a milestone for ESA's launch vehicle program.
- Uses 303 laser retroreflectors for precise distance measurements from ground stations.
- Orbit designed to reduce atmospheric and gravitational perturbations, enhancing data accuracy.
- Part of a series of satellites (LARES, LARES-2) dedicated to relativistic geodesy and fundamental physics research.

## Body
### Mission Overview
LARES-2 is a follow-up mission to the 2012 LARES satellite, continuing research into relativistic effects in Earth's gravitational field. Its primary instrument is a set of 303 laser retroreflectors, which bounce lasers from ground-based observatories to measure the satellite's position with millimeter precision.

### Launch and Deployment
- **Launch Vehicle**: Vega C (Vega Consolidated), an upgraded version of the Vega rocket with increased payload capacity.
- **Launch Site**: Ensemble de Lancement Vega (ELV) at the Guiana Space Centre in French Guiana.
- **Deployment Date**: July 13, 2022, at 20:13 UTC.

### Technical Specifications
- **Mass**: 297.5 kg (including a tungsten alloy sphere for stability).
- **Size**: 0.424-meter diameter spherical body.
- **Orbital Parameters**:
  - **Semi-Major Axis**: 12,267 km.
  - **Inclination**: 70.16°.
  - **Altitude**: Approximately 5,900 km (medium Earth orbit).

### Scientific Objectives
- **Frame-Dragging Measurement**: LARES-2 tests the Lense-Thirring effect, a prediction of general relativity where a rotating mass drags spacetime around it.
- **Gravitational Field Mapping**: Data from the mission helps refine models of Earth's gravitational field and its dynamic processes.
- **Technological Validation**: The satellite demonstrates the effectiveness of laser ranging technology for high-precision orbital measurements.

### Operational Context
- **Operator**: Italian Space Agency (ASI), with contributions from international partners.
- **Ground Network**: Relies on global laser ranging stations, including those in the International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS).
- **Mission Duration**: Designed for a multi-year operational lifespan, contingent on orbital decay and system performance.

## References

1. Jonathan's Space Report