On the systems of selenographic coordinates, their determination and terminology

Abstract

Attention is drawn to the absence in literature of the precise definitions of selenographic and celestial selenocentric coordinate systems. In certain cases inaccuracies in the formulation of the first Cassini law occur. This is due to the fact that the principal directions dealt with in the theory of lunar rotation are being constantly confused. A clear-cut definition of the principal coordinate systems concerned with the lunar rotation is given. It is indicated that there is no necessity in a special astronomical time service on the Moon. Since the future expeditions to the Moon will be able to keep terrestrial time, the problem of the hour angle is simply solved by the Formula (11). © 1971 D. Reidel Publishing Company.