The International Laser Ranging Service (ILRS) provides global satellite and lunar laser ranging data and their related products to support geodetic and geophysical research activities. The aim of these activities is primarily focused on geodetic and geophysical parameter estimation and geophysical model development. Furthermore, the main thrust of these activities addresses the needs of the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service (IERS) with products that contribute to the development of an ever more accurate International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF).
The unique ability of ILRS to sense the Earth System center of mass with high accuracy makes these products invaluable in the development of the ITRF, the prime product is the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS). The service coordinates operations of a global laser ranging network, develops the necessary global standards/specifications, and encourages international adherence to its conventions ensuring the highest quality of results. The ILRS is one of the space geodetic services of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG). The ILRS data and products are collected and generated under strict standards and they contribute to a wide range of scientific, engineering, and operational applications and experimentation.
The ILRS has been a WDS network member since 2013.