Science with GAIA

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http://astro.estec.esa.nl/GAIA/Science/Science.html
The scientific return from the GAIA mission will be far-reaching. GAIA will measure more than 1 billion stars in a global stellar census of our Galaxy and its nearest neighbours. In addition, it will obtain multi-colour photometry as crucial diagnostic data for all stars observed, along with radial velocities for the brighter objects to complete the kinematical data.

Image of the science capabilities of GAIA

This figure illustrates some of the scientific areas which will be addressed by GAIA. More detailed information can be found in the Scientific Topics section (see the Science Index). The various measurements made by the mission: Astrometry, Photometry and Radial Velocity, are also presented in some detail.

GAIA has completed a detailed Concept and Technology Study, and will be considered for selection as a future ESA cornerstone mission in September 2000. 
 Summary of Gaia Capabilities