Nano-JASMINE: a nano size astrometry satellite

We present the outline and current status of the nano-JASMINE project. Nano-JASMINE is a nano size astrometry satellite (the total payload mass is between 1 kg and 10 kg), which is expected to be launched in 2006. The main purpose of the project is to prove and demonstrate the key technologies required for JASMINE (Japanese Astrometry Satellite Mission for Infrared Exploration) in a real space environment Gouda et. al. (2002). Nano-JASMINE will measure annual parallaxes of bright stars (7 mag) with an accuracy greater than 1 milliarcsecond after two years of operation. This is comparable to the accuracy of the Hipparcos catalog. Currently, the subject of major research and development of the project is to build optical and telescope structures using new material, and to establish a data acquisition and control system.