The Hipparcos Input Catalogue includes the best available data collected within the framework of the INCA Consortium. The machine-readable version is composed of the main catalogue, including data for each stellar target of the satellite, and one annex containing more detailed data for individual components of double and multiple systems for which at least one component is included in the main Input Catalogue.
The printed version of the Catalogue is published as ESA SP-1136. It contains 7 volumes : volumes 1-5 comprise the main Hipparcos Input Catalogue, volume 6 contains Annex 1 (data for individual components of double and multiple systems), volume 7 contains Annexes 2 to 4 (identification charts for the fainter Input Catalogue stars, identification charts for all Input Catalogue stars in galactic open clusters, identification charts for all Input Catalogue stars in the Large and Small Magellanic Clouds).
A CD-ROM version of the Hipparcos Input Catalogue is being prepared containing all data of the main catalogue and annex 1, and all charts of annexes 2 and 3, along with a handly interrogating and mapping software.
In addition, the INCA Consortium structure and membership, the Hipparcos Scientific Selection Committee membership, and the list of all scientific programmes received by ESA for observation with Hipparcos, are given at the end of this introduction.