An orbiting disco ball gave Einstein’s theory its most precise test yet

Researchers have measured the frame-dragging effect predicted by Einstein's general relativity with unprecedented precision, confirming the theory once again . The measurement used data from the Laser Relativity Satellite 2 (LARES-2), a satellite launched into orbit by the Italian Space Agency in 2022 . The satellite is a mirror-covered orb resembling a disco ball, with scientists bouncing laser beams off its mirrors to determine its exact orbital position .

Source: Ars Technica | 2026-07-10