The view of the night sky from most of the populated regions of Earth is now seriously compromised by light pollution. An entire generation of citizens is now growing up without ever having the opportunity to gaze upon the magnificent night sky from a dark location. Much of modern astronomy involves study of faint objects, often with brightnesses similar to or fainter than the night sky. Astronomers are therefore extremely vulnerable to increases in sky brightness from light pollution. Despite their remote locations, the dark night skies over the major optical observatories are increasingly threatened by growth of artificial light at night.

We have been analyzing a large sample of solar-like stars with and without planets in order to homogeneously measure their photospheric parameters and Carbon abundances. Our sample contains around 200 stars in the solar neighborhood observed with the ELODIE spectrograph, for which the observational data are publicly available. We performed spectral synthesis of prominent bands of C2 and CI lines, aiming to accurately obtain the C abundances. We intend to contribute homogeneous results to studies that compare elemental abundances in stars with and without known planets. New arguments will be brought forward to the discussion of possible chemical anomalies that have been suggested in the literature, leading us to a better understanding of the planetary formation process. In this work we focus on the C abundances in both stellar groups of our sample.

Ionization cones are one of the most important pieces of evidence supporting the AGN unified model (Antonucci & Miller 1985; Urry & Padovani 1995). Until now, the physical processes at work in the cones are not completely understood. A still open question concerns the origin of the gas. To study the origin of the ionized gas, we first selected a sample of nearby (z<0.03) Seyfert galaxies showing extended [O iii] λ5007 emission. We then observed these galaxies with the MultiPupil Fiber Spectrograph (MPFS) at the 6-m telescope of the Special Astrophysical Observatory (Russia). Here we present very preliminary results on the properties of the narrow-line region (NLR) of the intermediate Seyfert galaxy Mrk 6.

Gas in galaxy clusters requires re-heating. We study the re-heating of the cool gas phases. Ionized and molecular gas is traced out to 20 kpc and found to be strongly coupled. The observed line emission may in part be explained by excitation due to hot, young stars.

massclean is a new, sophisticated and robust stellar cluster image and photometry simulation package. This package can create color–magnitude diagrams and standard FITS images in any of the traditional optical and near-infrared bands based on cluster characteristics input by the user, including but not limited to distance, age, mass, radius and extinction. At the limit of very distant, unresolved clusters, we have checked the integrated colors created in massclean against those from other simple stellar population models, with consistent results. Because the algorithm populates the cluster with a discrete number of tenable stars, it can be used as part of a Monte Carlo method to derive the probabilistic range of characteristics (integrated colors, for example) consistent with a given cluster mass and age. We present the first ever mass-dependent integrated colors as a function of age, derived from over 100 000 Monte Carlo runs, which can be used to improve the current age-determination methods for stellar clusters.

We test a membership method to select embedded young stellar objects (YSOs) from a Galactic molecular cloud with ongoing massive star formation using multiband analysis. We select and discuss the embedded stellar population in the molecular cloud associated with IRAS 18235−1205, a small, geometrically well-defined Galactic molecular cloud. The IRAS source has infrared fluxes characteristic of an UCHii region, CS(J = 2 − 1) emission, and methanol and water maser emission, suggesting that this region is a good candidate for studies of young, massive star formation. The selection method of embedded stellar populations is based on the spatial distribution of 13CO(J = 1 − 0) and Spitzer/MIPS 24 μm point sources. Photometric analysis using near/mid-infrared images are used to test our selection criteria. Three objects are associated with the IRAS source; two have a characteristic spectral-energy distribution (SED) of a Class I/0 object (protostar) and the third has an SED of Class II.

We study the dynamical interaction between stars surrounding black holes in self-gravitating galaxy cores by using realistic N-body techniques, calibrated by Fokker–Planck approximated models (Fiestas, Spurzem, & Kim 2006). We study the evolution over the relaxation time (collisional nuclei) of non-spherical (triaxial) models as flattening of the system due to rotation is allowed. We follow the interplay between velocity diffusion due to relaxation and black hole star accretion and study accretion rates and cusp formation in spherically symmetric and axisymmetric models.

We present the results of a medium-resolution spectroscopic survey of 43 field horizontal-branch (FHB) candidates carried out near the south galactic pole, selected from the original list of FHB candidates compiled by Beers et al. (2007). The observation list includes only stars classified as “high-probability” candidates, according to their 2MASS infrared colours. Atmospheric parameters of some stars have been obtained by comparing some spectral features with theoretical models provided by Kurucz (1993). A comparison between the grid of model atmospheres with some parameters of the Hδ line allowed the determination of log g, whilst [Fe/H] was estimated by the equivalent widths of the MgII 4481 and Caii lines. About 77% of the sample have been classified as FHB stars, 10% as subdwarfs, whilst the remaining 13% are probably main-sequence A-type stars far from the Galactic plane.

In order to simulate the effects of the heavy ion component of cosmic rays on ices in astrophysical environments, the CO and CO2 ices were irradiated with swift nickel ions in the electronic energy loss regime. The ices were prepared by condensing gas onto a CsI substrate at a temperature of 14 K and analyzed by means of infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The physical process of deposition by Ni ions is similar to more important and abundant heavy cosmic rays such as Fe ions. Dissociation of the ice molecules, and formation of new molecules were observed. Also, sputtering (leading to desorption of molecules from the solid surface to the gas phase) was observed. It was found that the sputtering yield due to heavy ions cannot be neglected with respect to desorption induced by weakly ionizing particles such as UV photons and protons.

The Starlight Initiative brings a new view of the night sky and of its value enhancement, claiming the access to starlight as a scientific, environmental, and cultural right of humankind. Night sky quality has been seriously damaged in the last years because of light and atmospheric pollution, and an international action in favour of intelligent outdoor lighting is urgently needed. After the promulgation of the Starlight Declaration, we are jointly working with UNESCO, the World Heritage Centre, the MaB Programme, and other international institutions in the development of Starlight Reserves as exemplary areas that would act as models for the recovery of the heritage associated to star observation. The possibility arises to design and launch new tourist products and destinations based on astronomy and starry sceneries.

Consistent metallicities are now obtained in X-ray bright galaxies, using the Chandra ACIS and XMM PN, MOS and RGS detectors. With two temperature models, the Fe metallicity of the gas is typically solar, similar to Mg, Si, and S, but the O abundance is about half solar. These values are in conflict with models, which predict a metallicity 3-5 times higher and a Fe to O ratio near unity. This suggests that a significant fraction of metals are not becoming mixed into the hot galactic atmosphere.

This work deals with a CCD imaging study at optical and near-infrared wavelength of two giant molecular clouds (plus a control field) in the southern region of the Large Magellanic Cloud, one of which shows multiple signs of star formation, whereas the other does not. The observational data from VLT FORS2 (R-band) and NTT SOFI (Ks-band) have been analyzed to derive luminosity functions and color-magnitude diagrams. The young stellar content of these two giant molecular clouds is compared and confirmed to be different, in the sense that the apparently “starless” cloud has so far formed only low-luminosity, low-mass stars (fainter than mKs = 16.5 mag, not seen by 2MASS), while the other cloud has formed both faint low-mass and luminous high-mass stars. The surface density excess of low-luminosity stars (~ 2 per square arcmin) in the “starless” cloud with respect to the control field is about 20% whereas the excess is about a factor of 3 in the known star-forming cloud. The difference may be explained theoretically by the gravo-turbulent evolution of giant molecular clouds, one being younger and less centrally concentrated than the other.

I present predictions from a chemical evolution model for a self-consistent study of optical (i.e., stellar) and X-ray (i.e., gas) properties of present-day elliptical galaxies. Detailed cooling and heating processes in the interstellar medium are taken into account and allow a reliable modelling of the SN-driven galactic wind. The model simultaneously reproduces the mass-metallicity, colour-magnitude, LX - LB and LX - T relations, and the observed trend of [Mg/Fe] with σ. The "iron discrepancy" can be solved by taking into account the dust presence.

We performed a self-consistent N-body simulation of star clusters in the Galactic center (GC), taking into account the collisions of stars and formation of an intermediate-mass black hole (IMBH). We find that if an IMBH forms in the cluster, it carries young stars to the GC by a 1:1 resonance.

The radio spectrum is a finite and increasingly precious resource for astronomical research, as well as for other spectrum users. Keeping the frequency bands used for radio astronomy as free as possible of unwanted Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) is crucial. The aim of spectrum management, one of the tools used towards achieving this goal, includes setting regulatory limits on RFI levels emitted by other spectrum users into the radio astronomy frequency bands. This involves discussions with regulatory bodies and other spectrum users at several levels – national, regional and worldwide. The global framework for spectrum management is set by the Radio Regulations of the International Telecommunication Union, which has defined that interference is detrimental to radio astronomy if it increases the uncertainty of a measurement by 10%. The Radio Regulations are revised every three to four years, a process in which four organisations representing the interests of the radio astronomical community in matters of spectrum management (IUCAF, CORF, CRAF and RAFCAP) participate actively. The current interests and activities of these four organisations range from preserving what has been achieved through regulatory measures, to looking far into the future of high frequency use and giant radio telescope use.

Light elements are important tracers of the internal stellar structure and kinematics. Li and Be are both burned in the stellar interiors but Be requires much higher temperatures and thus we can expect to measure Be abundances in stars which have no detectable Li in their atmospheres. The study of these elements can give us information about processes related to the angular momentum history of these stars, since rotation and angular momentum loss are important mechanisms responsible for the depletion of light elements. Additionally, if pollution has played an important role in determining the high-metal content of planet host stars, we would expect to find a similar or even higher increase in the Li and Be contents. We present Be and Li abundances in a sample of 69 stars with planets and 31 stars without known planetary companion, spanning a large range of effective temperatures.

Starburst clusters are spectacular young and dense stellar systems containing copious numbers of massive O-type and Wolf–Rayet stars. These objects depict a stellar population comprising stars over the entire mass range, making them ideal objects to study cluster formation and evolution as well as to test and calibrate stellar evolutionary models. Among the Galactic spiral-arm starburst clusters, NGC 3603 Young Cluster (YC), which is located in the Carina spiral arm, is the youngest and most compact one. Galactic starburst clusters also serve as templates for extragalactic super star clusters as observed, e.g., in the Antennae galaxies. Based on two epochs (obtained 10 yr apart) of high-quality astrometric HST/WFPC2 observations, we derive individual proper motions for several hundred stars. The proper motions enable us to distinguish cluster members from field stars, and to derive a first estimate of the internal cluster dynamics. Photometry of the clean sample of cluster stars allows us to create color–magnitude diagrams (CMDs) that are not contaminated by field stars, and to compare the sequence of cluster members with different sets of theoretical isochrones and evolutionary tracks. We clearly identify a lower-mass pre-main-sequence and a higher-mass main-sequence stellar population in NGC 3603. A particular focus of our comparison with theoretical isochrones is the exact shape and extent of the pre-main-sequence/main-sequence transition region in NGC 3603 YC. The proper motions also contain dynamical information. From this, we derive a velocity dispersion, which leads to the first dynamical mass estimate of the NGC 3603 cluster. We also investigate whether or not NGC 3603 YC is virialized, and study evidence for primordial versus dynamical mass segregation. Past and future evolution of NGC 3603 YC can be studied and will tell us about the clusters ‘fate’ and its long-term survival chances.

The study of chemical abundances in stars with planets is an important ingredient for the models of formation and evolution of planetary systems. In order to determine accurate abundances, it is crucial to have a reliable set of atmospheric parameters. In this work, we describe the homogeneous determination of effective temperatures, surface gravities and iron abundances for a large sample of stars with planets as well as a control sample of stars without giant planets. Our results indicate that the metallicity distribution of the stars with planets is more metal rich by ~0.13 dex than the control sample stars.

The history of this magic instrument is complex, and the teaching goal was never forgotten. Technological developments of the planetarium enable it now to treat the major topics of astronomy and astrophysics. But by simplifying too much or badly, one is likely to bring confusion in the spirits. The development of the planetarium is a continual challenge, as long as the scientific culture is not integrated perfectly in the cultural landscape. In several countries, planetariums link their knowledge and their know-how, for better resisting to economic difficulties, and better speaking about astronomy to their public. In particular the great project ALMA will be celebrated in a show for the International Year of Astronomy. Today's planetarium works as a theater for all sciences, and can issue a passport to the various scales of the universe

NGC 205 is a small galaxy (M/M⊙ = 0.7 × 109; MV = −16.6) currently located 36′ NW of M31. It is classified as dE because in ground-based images it appears as an elliptical body. However past investigations have revealed characteristics that are more typical of a disk galaxy: the specific frequency of globular clusters is 1.8; the large scale dynamics shows partial rotational support; there is a significant amount (106M⊙) of rotating gas (molecular and atomic) and dust; the central regions harbor a fairly complex stellar population, including a 100–500 Myr old nucleus surrounded by 50- and 100-Myr old stellar associations (see references in Monaco et al. 2009; M09). Very recently, thanks to hst/acs imaging we have been able to reveal a young central ‘field’ population (M09), extending out to ~40″ in radius (~160 pc). The luminosity function of the main sequence can be fitted with Saviane et al. (2004) model of continuous star formation (SF) from at least ~600 Myr ago to ~60 Myr ago. We found that 1.5 × 105M⊙ in stars were produced from ~300 Myr to ~60 Myr ago, with a SF rate of 7 × 10−4M⊙ yr−1. A continuous SF seems to support the latest simulations of NGC 205 orbit: Howley et al. (2008) found that the galaxy must be moving with a velocity 300–500 km s−1 (comparable to the escape velocity) along an almost radial orbit, and it should be approaching M31 for the first time. An episodic SF triggered by passages through M31 disk every ~300 Myr in a bound orbit (Cepa & Beckman 1988) is excluded by our data.