Creation of a Global Selenocentric Coordinate Reference Frame

Abstract

A number of questions about the Moon remain to be answered, including fundamental questions related to the internal structure and origin of the Moon. Studies of the spin–orbital dynamics of the Moon and of selenodesy are required for the practical solution of a number of problems related to navigation on the Moon and in circumlunar space, with the aim of providing coordinate and time support for planned lunar space projects. This paper analyzes existing dynamic selenographic reference grids, considers methods for their development and creation, and describes the modern projects related to navigational support for lunar missions. This paper is based on a presentation made at the conference “Modern Astrometry 2017,” dedicated to the memory of K.V. Kuimov (Sternberg Astronomical Institute, Moscow State University, October 23–25, 2017).