The Milky Way and the Local Group -
Now and in the
Gaia Era
August 31 to September 4, 2009
Zentrum für Astronomie der Universität Heidelberg
This conference focuses on the substantial recent advances in our understanding of the evolution of the Milky Way and of the Local Group, both from the theoretical and observational point of view as well as in terms of new facilities and surveys. Special emphasis will be placed on the prospects of the forthcoming Gaia satellite mission.
The University of Heidelberg hosts the largest center for astronomy of all German universities. This center, the "Zentrum für Astronomie der Universität Heidelberg" (ZAH), consists of three institutes focusing on many different aspects of Galactic astronomy, dynamics, star formation, galaxy evolution, and cosmology, topics that are central to our conference. Heidelberg also leads the German efforts in the preparation of the Gaia satellite mission.
Heidelberg is a beautiful city in a valley at the Neckar river. It is famous for its well-preserved old town with many historical buildings, for its castle, for its "Philosophers' Walk", and for its university, which is one of the oldest in Europe.
The conference itself will take place on the natural sciences campus of the University of Heidelberg in the Neuenheim district, easily reachable by public transport. We will have a building with two large lecture halls at our disposal, along with ample space for posters. Free wireless internet will be provided throughout the conference. The conference dinner will be held on Wednesday following a guided tour of the picturesque castle of Heidelberg. This conference is being organized with the help of UniTT Conference Management.
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