HIPPARCOS and the dynamics of the solar system

The HIPPARCOS program may contribute to dynamical astronomy in two different ways: by determining the positions of some bodies of the solar system or by improving the positions of the reference stars with respect to which observations of members of the solar system are made.It is shown that only minor planets may be observed validly by HIPPARCOS but these observations alone cannot contribute significantly to the determination of a reference frame. However, they can be useful for the improvement of orbits and as a complement to a major observational effort in preparation of a new determination of dynamical system of reference.HIPPARCOS will provide a new global reference frame and improved proper motions of stars. This may be used to rediscuss earlier observations and provide corrections to the theory of motion of the Moon and planets. Such corrections may be rather large and their possible effect is indicated for several cases. Furthermore, the celestial reference system of HIPPARCOS will allow to avoid, in future observations, many of the presently existing biases.Proceedings of the Conference on Analytical Methods and Ephemerides: Theory and Observations of the Moon and Planets. Facultés universitaires Notre Dame de la Paix, Namur, Belgium, 28–31 July, 1980.