The Cologne Database for Molecular Spectroscopy, CDMS

The unambiguous assignment of molecular lines observed astronomically depends critically on the availability of laboratory data with appropriate accuracy. The catalog section of the Cologne Database for Molecular Spectroscopy, CDMS (www.cdms.de), contains predictions of rotational spectra for molecules of astrophysical ans astrochemical interest which are based on available and critically evaluated laboratory data. Infrared spectroscopic information is available to some extent. The catalog is extended and updated continuously. Currently, 427 entries are present, including isotopic species and vibrationally excited states. The CDMS is one of the most important resources for a number of web-based astronomy tools. The CDMS catalog will be presented in some detail as well as other sections of the CDMS briefly. In addition, the need for additional laboratory spectroscopic work will be sketched in light of missions such as the Herschel Space Observatory, SOFIA, or telescope arrays such as the SMA or ALMA.