The SIMBAD astronomical database

TLDR

Simbad is the reference database for identifying and citing astronomical objects, providing identifications, basic data, bibliography, and selected observations for millions of objects, and is maintained by CDS in Strasbourg. The database is built through collaboration with multiple institutes, scanning bibliographies with partners such as Observatoire de Paris, Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris, and Observatoire de Bordeaux, and selecting catalogues that prioritize multi‑wavelength coverage and support large‑project research. A web interface to access Simbad is available at http://simbad.u-strasbg.fr/Simbad.

Abstract

Simbad is the reference database for identification and bibliography of astronomical objects. It contains identifications, "basic data", bibliography, and selected observational measurements for several million astronomical objects. Simbad is developed and maintained by CDS, Strasbourg. Building the database contents is achieved with the help of several contributing institutes. Scanning the bibliography is the result of the collaboration of CDS with bibliographers in Observatoire de Paris (DASGAL), Institut d'Astrophysique de Paris, and Observatoire de Bordeaux. When selecting catalogues and tables for inclusion, priority is given to optimal multi-wavelength coverage of the database, and to support of research developments linked to large projects. In parallel, the systematic scanning of the bibliography reflects the diversity and general trends of astronomical research. A WWW interface to Simbad is available at: http://simbad.u-strasbg.fr/Simbad.