[en] An introduction to the Advanced Photon Source project is provided through a brief description of the project elements, conventional facilities and technical goals. The current status of the project is provided in the selected areas of R and D, design, construction, funding, staffing, management and user activities. Emphasis is placed on the R and D activities and on the production of prototypes of various technical components to realize a facility with very high reliability and stability. Attention is also paid to aspects related to control and integration of the entire project in relation to its cost and schedule. The project was initiated in 1983; construction will begin during 1990 with planned completion in 1995. (author)