Space missions: ground-based observations and science communication

Eurplanet 2020 (RI) and Molėtai Astronomical Observatory (ITPA VU) are pleased to announce the observational research summer school International summer school „Space missions: ground-based observations and science communication“. The aim of the course is to give participants a thorough multidisciplinary introduction into the space missions, on-ground observations required by space missions before and after the launch and science comunication. In addition, more general  subjects about specific space missions (Gaia, PLATO, TESS...),  planetary systems, habitability of planets, photometric and spectroscopic technyques will be presented. To give participants some hands-on experience with analysis of stellar chemical composition, detection of stellar variability and/or exoplanets we will us the Molėtai Astronomical Observatory telescopes (CCD photometry and high-resolution spectroscopy). The course is open to PhD and master students, early career scientists, and amateur astronomers. The course will also dedicate an effort to discuss some issues of the public communication  and presenting science-related topics to non-experts.

The school isorganized and sponsored by the Europlanet 2020 Research Infrastructure (RI)

 mao.tfai.vu.lt/europlanet2017

Activities of professional astronomers and amateur astronomers will be merged in order to achieve more understanding between groups. The level of the school is orientated to PhD students and early career scientists, however amateur astronomers will be provided with the additional scientific support during lectures and observations.

• For selected* participants from the European Economic Area (EEA)  the participation will be fully covered and up to EUR 360,- for travel depending on the distance travelled will be reimbursed by EUROPLANET 2020.
• Other selected participants will have to pay a participation fee of 600 EUR that includes accomodation, meals, excursions and local transportation.

The school is organised by the European Commission HORIZON 2020 project EUROPLANET 2020 Research Infrastructure.

The deadline for application is 01 June 2017 23:59:00 UTC.

* More information concerning the reimbursement will be provided for the selected participants  personally.