What Does HIPPARCOS Stand For?

HIPPARCOS stands for HIgh Precision Parallax COllecting Satellite

HIPPARCOS, which stands for HIgh Precision Parallax COllecting Satellite, was a space-based astrometry mission launched by the European Space Agency in 1989. Its primary objective was to measure the positions, distances, and movements of stars with unprecedented accuracy. By utilizing advanced technology to collect parallax data, HIPPARCOS significantly improved our understanding of the structure and dynamics of our galaxy. The mission's extensive catalog has provided invaluable data for astronomical research and has enhanced our knowledge of stellar properties and distances.