Connecting terrestrial to celestial reference frames

Abstract

In this paper we outline several problems related to the realization of the international celestial and terrestrial reference frames --- the ICRF and ITRF --- at the millimeter level of accuracy, with emphasis on ICRF issues. We consider here the current status of the ICRF, the interrelationship between the ICRF and ITRF, and considerations for future ICRF realizations.

arXiv commentPresented at the IAU XXVIII General Assembly, Joint Discussion 7, Beijing, China, 28 August 28 2012. To appear in Highlights of Astronomy, Vol. 16