Abstract
Simulated observations of the planets, the Sun, and the Moon, considered as geometrical objects, were calculated for an assumed observing period of ten years, with 40% of the days and nights clear. Analysis of these observations indicates that the Sun and the inner planets are strong contributors to the celestial equinox and equator. In theory the Moon should be a very strong contributor, but practical difficulties with the lunar observations, especially the very serious systematic errors associated with this class of observation, make it unlikely that its potential will ever be fully realized. However, it is possible to orient the celestial reference system from minor planet observations alone, a class of observation not seriously affected by large systematic errors.
