A set of codes for calculation of the structure of atoms and ions and their excitation functions and collision rates is compiled. It is based on the Hartree-Fock wave functions with the possibility to account for configuration interaction and is aimed at investigation of the excitation processes of heavy (Z>30) atoms in the framework of this project.

Test calculations in the Born and Coulomb-Born approximations are fulfilled for hydrogen, helium, sodium, as well as for forth ions of Argon, Krypton and Xenon which are currently of great astrophysical interest and for which the results can be compared with recent R-matrix calculations. The work of compiling similar program for distorted waves approximation is under way.

Essentials of the physics of a new method for collision rates measurements are developed for collisions of excited atoms with slow electrons. The measurements of quenching rate constants of the atomic and ionic levels of He and Ar by electrons are accomplished. The method has its own inner test that makes use of ionic states with very short radiation life times.

The programs for calculations of the line intensities and diagnostics for the spectra of inhomogeneous laboratory and astrophysical low-density plasmas are developed. The intensities of ionic lines of Kr and Xe in the bright gaseous nebulae spectra are calculated.

Development of all the above listed programs is a necessary step for accomplishment of the planed calculations and investigation of the physics of electron-atom and electron-ion collisions. The results on quenching rate constants and on the spectra and structure of the low density plasma objects are new.