Aside from the expanded format capability, the new prediction system greatly improved tracking on low satellites because the full modeling potential of the orbit computation at the prediction center is passed on to the stations. There are three target classes consolidated under this format (1) Passive retro-reflectors (including earth orbiting, in lunar orbit, and on the moon) (2) asynchronous transponders, and (3) synchronous transponders.
The predictions provide daily tables of x,y, and z positions for each target that can be interpolated for very accurate predictions. The ILRS Predictions Formats Study Group created a Consolidated Prediction Format (CPF) for laser ranging that accurately predicts positions and ranges for a much wider variety of laser ranging targets than had been previously possible. In addition, with the Galileo constellation on the horizon and the possibility of more GPS satellites with retro-reflectors, the ILRS had to improve both day- and night-time ranging to high satellites, which means improving our prediction capability. The previous prediction format could not accommodate this need. Some of these were to be launched in the near future.
Remote receivers and transponders were on the horizon for the moon, planets and extraterrestrial missions. These procedures had worked well through the years, but new requirements made it necessary to update our prediction techniques. Lunar laser ranging stations have used multi-year ephemeris with lunar and planetary ephemeris software packages. This format consists of daily satellite state vector (x,y,and z positions and velocities at a given time plus other parameters) tuned to specific field integrator software and gravity field to provide maximum accuracy over the integration period. Prior to June 2008, the satellite laser ranging stations used the standard 'Tuned IRV' prediction format.
Consolidated Prediction Format (CPF) Version 1.00 Superseded by CPF v2.00 on 1 October 2021
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