OBJECTIVES OF LARES SATELLITE

Laser Relativity Satellite (LARES) is a satellite specifically designed to accurately measure Earth gravitomagnetism and Lense-Thirring effect, theoretical predictions of Einstein general relativity. These phenomena, not present in Newtonian theory are induced by the Earth angular momentum. Challenges of the experiment are the minimization of the nongravitational perturbations and the possibility to reduce uncertainties in the knowledge of the Earth gravitational field. The first item is solved by a proper design and choice of the material of the satellite. The second item is solved by using data from three different laser ranged satellites and by the use of the newest model of the Earth gravitational field obtained by the GRACE spacecraft. Another key to the success of the experiment is the availability of an international network of laser ranging stations that are capable to measure the time of flight of laser pulses with accuracies of a few millimetres that ultimately allow to predict the satellite position with errors of a few centimeters. The paper will describe the main scientific objectives of LARES mission and the status of the programme with some details on: ground segment, launch system and space segment (LARES system