Basic principles of scanning space astrometry

Abstract:
We outline the basic principles of scanning space astrometry, such as represented by Hipparcos, Gaia, and some other astrometric satellites planned or proposed. We explain the need for large-angle measurements, why these are essentially one-dimensional, how it is possible to determine absolute parallaxes, and why a Hipparcos-type scanning law is favourable. We discuss the choice of the basic angle between the two viewing directions, the principle of self-calibration, and why the resulting numerical problem must be difficult to solve.