  We introduce the 4-metre Multi-Object Spectroscopic Telescope (4MOST), a new
high-multiplex, wide-field spectroscopic survey facility under development for
the four-metre-class Visible and Infrared Survey Telescope for Astronomy
(VISTA) at Paranal. Its key specifications are: a large field of view (FoV) of
4.2 square degrees and a high multiplex capability, with 1624 fibres feeding
two low-resolution spectrographs ($R = \lambda/\Delta\lambda \sim 6500$), and
812 fibres transferring light to the high-resolution spectrograph ($R \sim
20\,000$). After a description of the instrument and its expected performance,
a short overview is given of its operational scheme and planned 4MOST
Consortium science; these aspects are covered in more detail in other articles
in this edition of The Messenger. Finally, the processes, schedules, and
policies concerning the selection of ESO Community Surveys are presented,
commencing with a singular opportunity to submit Letters of Intent for Public
Surveys during the first five years of 4MOST operations.
