China will send a precision astronomical instrument to Argentina, and astronomers of the two countries will conduct cooperation in astronomical research.

A third-generation satellite laser ranging (SLR) instrument, with a 60-cm-caliber telescope and weighing about six tons, will be transported to the San Juan University of Argentina in mid-September, according to the National Observatory of the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

This will be China's first medium-sized astronomical instrument installed overseas.

The primary function of the SLR is the measurement of precise distances between laser telescopes and reflectors on passing satellites.

Built in China, testing of the instrument showed that its accuracy is up to the international laser ranging standard.

SLR is the most important geodetic instrument for the establishment of an accurate global geodetic infrastructure and earth monitoring science, said experts.

SLR is mainly used in monitoring earth rotation and polar motion, modeling the temporal and spatial variation of the earth's gravity field, and the determination of ocean and earth tides, experts explained.

However, most SLR instruments are located in the northern hemisphere. The observatory of San Juan University is an excellent place for SLR, for the clear and dry air there, said experts.

Technicians from the National Observatory will fly to Argentina for the installation and adjustment of the instrument. The data and scientific results by the instrument will be shared by the two countries.

(Xinhua News Agency September 9, 2005)