School theme
The understanding of disks and planets is a fast evolving and exciting undertaking of modern astrophysics. Classically, most observational evidence was collected using radial velocities surveys, broad band photometry or spectroscopy. High angular resolution observations using HST, adaptive optics systems and sub-mm interferometry unveiled complex disk morphologies, gaps and winds. More recently, the exquisite angular resolution of modern optical interferometers pinpointed the dust sublimation walls of disks and resolved grain growth in their planet forming region.
The goal of the school is to present an overview of disk and planetary astrophysics emphasizing both the physical mechanisms, and the high angular resolution observational techniques (such as adaptive optics, mm and optical interferometry). Emphasis is given to interferometry given the importance of the Very Large Telescope Interferometer and the ALMA array for disk and planetary studies. Practical sessions will center on proposal preparation for the Very Large Telescope Interferometer. Finally, complementary skills useful for young astronomers will be addressed in a series of lectures.
Audience
The school is target to PhD students and young post-docs working on on the field of star formation and high angular resolution techniques.
Funding
This school is funded by the European Union Marie Curie Program. We expect to fund full living and travel expenses of all PhD students and most young post-docs. The number of participants is 50. Participants will be selected ensuring a broad coverage of institutes and countries, and on motivation and domain of expertise. Non-european nationals are encouraged to apply.
Duration
Two weeks: 28th May to 8th June 2007
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