LARES: a New Laser Ranged Satellite for Testing General Relativity

In this paper the LARES space mission, derived from the LAGEOS III project is described. The objective of this mission is to obtain data useful in the field of fundamental physics and Earth science. Specifically LARES will give important contributions in general relativity, geodesy and geodynamics. The mission concept is to use a proof mass (a small and heavy satellite) to study the gravity field around the Earth. The satellite surface is covered with more than 100 cube corner retroreflectors that allow its tracking by over 40 laser ranging stations on Earth. The satellite design is derived from that one of LAGEOS and therefore it will be based on a well tested technology and design. As a consequence this mission will be very reliable, low-cost and will provide data for at least 35 years.