New data at virtually all wavelength bands are now available for our Galaxy. In terms of the mass distribution, the most valuable contributions come from a near IR map obtained with the COBE satellite (Dwek et al. 1995), and the ongoing microlensing experiments (MACHO, EROS, OGLE, etc.). For the solar neighbourhood dynamics, the new data from the HIPPARCOS satellite will provide fresh insights into old problems. For the determination of the Galactic rotation curve beyond the solar radius, see the reviews by Fich & Tremaine 1991, Merrifield 1992, and Olling & Merrifield 1998. In general, it is assumed that the Galactic rotation curve remains more or less flat at large radii, consistent with data on satellites such as outlying globular clusters and dwarf spheroidals. Thus the rotation curve of our Galaxy is similar to that of any other larger spiral.