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		| Paper: | 
		GAIA : Design and Science | 
	 
	
		| Volume: | 
		167, Harmonizing Cosmic Distance Scales in a Post-Hipparcos Era | 
	 
	
		| Page: | 
		44 | 
	 
	
		| Authors: | 
		Mignard, F. | 
	 
	
	
		| Abstract: | 
		This paper presents the main technical features of the space astrometry mission GAIA currently under study at the European Space Agency as a candidate cornerstone. The major scientific objectives are outlined with a particular emphasis on the impact of the mission on galactic and stellar physics. | 
	 
	
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