The Lomonosov Project for Space Astrometry

Abstract

The lomonosov project is aimed at developing a high-accuracy coordinate system of the entire sky to be used for sufficiently long period of time (30 to 50 years) in order to ensure the solution of a variety of applied and basic scientific tasks. This goal can be feasible as a result of comprehensive work, the basis of which is the space experiment, i.e., observations of stars with a telescope on board the Earth satellite. This method can be instrumental in overcoming the distortions characteristic of terrestrial astrometric observations performed through the atmosphere, and to achieve a high degree of efficiency. The other part of the lomonosov project involves international backing of the space experiment through preparation of the input catalogue for 400 000 stars, and organization of high-precision ground observations of stars and other celestial objects in accordance with special programs.