Introduction

Large scale processes driving and controlling star formation and nucleosynthesis are fundamental but, in many cases, particularly for ordinary stars, poorly known and understood. Due to its relative proximity, the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC) offers unique possibilities of detailed observations providing that sufficient image resolution is available. A group of Scandinavian astronomers intends to use the Hubble Space Telescope (HST) to make a detailed study of stellar populations down to magnitude V = 22 (F-dwarfs), at the LMC center. Age structure and chemical composition will be determined by performing Strömgren photometry using the Planetary Camera (PC).

To assist in the selection of suitable target areas, ESO Schmidt plates have been scanned. Fig. 1 shows an 1111 arcmin region at the center of the LMC. The square in the figure marks a 3535 arcsecond area that has been chosen as one HST target.