Pro and Contra Changes in the Conventional Values of Precession

Abstract

AbstractFrom an evalution of the arguments pro and contra changes in the precessional constants it is concluded that corrections should be made simultaneously with changes in the values of planetary masses at the time when the new fundamental reference system, the FK5, is introduced into the ephemerides. In this case the location and motion of the equinox would be corrected at the same time. An IAU decision on changes in the constants should be made in 1976. Since the completion of the FK5 may be expected around 1980, the introduction into the ephemerides appears practicable in 1984.