Core Viewpoint - China has achieved significant advancements in lunar distance measurement technology with the successful development of a new generation of lunar space laser retroreflectors, marking a global first in daytime satellite laser ranging under strong light interference conditions [3][4]. Group 1: Technological Achievements - The new generation lunar space laser retroreflector, weighing only 1.3 kilograms, features a large aperture single corner design and has overcome several technical challenges, enhancing its reflective capabilities [4]. - The successful daytime laser ranging experiment demonstrates China's capability in precise deep space measurement, expanding the operational window for such technologies [5]. Group 2: Research and Development Contributions - The Shanghai Astronomical Observatory played a crucial role in the development and implementation of the new laser retroreflector, which is essential for the success of the lunar space laser ranging experiments [4]. - The high-precision laser ranging technology is expected to significantly improve the tracking accuracy of lunar space probes, showcasing its potential in both scientific and engineering applications [4]. Group 3: Future Implications - The successful trials are expected to support major deep space exploration projects, including the international lunar research station, thereby enhancing China's position in high-precision lunar laser ranging technology [5].

Core Viewpoint - The successful laser ranging technology test conducted by the "Tiandu-1" satellite research team marks a significant breakthrough in China's precision measurement capabilities in deep space, being the first of its kind to be performed during daytime conditions [1][3]. Group 1: Technological Advancements - The "Tiandu-1" satellite laser ranging test was conducted under strong sunlight interference, which previously limited such experiments to nighttime due to weak echo signals being overwhelmed by background noise [1][3]. - The new generation lunar space laser corner reflector developed by the Shanghai Astronomical Observatory weighs only 1.3 kg and features a large aperture single corner design, enhancing its reflective capabilities [3][6]. - The research team overcame several technical challenges, including speed matching, far-field diffraction design, and passive thermal control of low-temperature mirrors, which were crucial for the success of the daytime laser ranging test [3][6]. Group 2: Performance and Applications - The new laser corner reflector acts like a super-reflective mirror, ensuring efficient return of laser signals to the ground station, showcasing strong reflection capability, high precision, and lightweight design [6]. - The successful test indicates that the comprehensive performance of China's independently developed lunar space laser corner reflector has reached an internationally leading level, expanding the observational window for this technology [6]. - This advancement will significantly support China's lunar space exploration and deep space missions, including the validation and implementation of major projects like the international lunar research station [6].