IAUS 401: Advancing Reference Systems, Ephemeris, and Standards: From the Earth and the Moon to Solar System Bodies

Post Meeting Report

Start date
August 4, 2025

End date
August 9, 2025

Place
La Plata, Argentina

Contact
Alberto Escapa

Event website
https://iaus401.fcaglp.unlp.edu.ar/

Coordinating Division
Division A Fundamental Astronomy,
Division B Facilities, Technologies and Data Science,
Division F Planetary Systems and Astrobiology

Abstract
Reference systems and their standardisation are of paramount importance to many fields of astronomy. Some examples are the reduction of ground-based observations, the space astrometry and astrophysics missions, space missions to Solar System planetary bodies and beyond. The concept of a reference system and its realisation requires the convergence of reference frames, ephemeris, and time scales to be developed respecting associated standards, thus fulfilling one of the IAU strategic goals as the provider of astronomical standards and their use. The proposed IAU symposium will be a forum to discuss the latest results and prospects in this field and facilitate the coordination of common standards across agencies and organizations. The symposium will promote and strengthen the cooperation between the Latin-American region research community and scientists from other parts of the world and provide an opportunity to stimulate the teaching and learning of astronomy among local communities through the planned educational activities.