Our knowledge of the distribution and properties of the small solid particles within the solar system continues to improve rapidly. Much of the progress is due to observations from spacecraft which offer completely new locations from which to view phenomena such as the zodiacal light. In combination with ground-based observations and improved theoretical models, a picture now emerges with a clarity un- attainable even a few years ago. The need for a survey of the situation was recognized in 1976 and, at meetings of COSPAR and the International Astronomical Union in that year, planning began...

Our knowledge of the distribution and properties of the small solid particles within the solar system continues to improve rapidly. Much of the progress is due to observations from spacecraft which offer completely new locations from which to view phenomena such as the zodiacal light. In combination with ground-based observations and improved theoretical models, a picture now emerges with a clarity un- attainable even a few years ago. The need for a survey of the situation was recognized in 1976 and, at meetings of COSPAR and the International Astronomical Union in that year, planning began...