The Eighth Oukaimeden International School for Astrophysics:

– stellar physics –

November 18–21, 2024
Marrakech, Morocco

The first edition of the International School of Oukaimeden (OISA) was inaugurated in April 2007 .This event coincided with significant developments at the Cadi Ayyad University Observatory (OUCA), which is affiliated with the event. The Oukaimeden International School for Astrophysics has made significant contributions to the development of astronomy in Africa, particularly as it gears up for its eighth edition in November 2024. Since its inception in 2007, this school has served as a crucial platform for education, research, and collaboration in the field of astrophysics across the continent. It has fostered a unique environment where aspiring astronomers and established experts from various African countries and beyond come to get together to share knowledge, ideas, and the latest advancements in the field. The school’s emphasis on hands-on training, cutting-edge research, and international collaboration has played a vital role in nurturing a new generation of African astronomers. Its continued efforts not only enhance the scientific capabilities within the continent, but also contribute significantly to the global astronomical community, marking Africa as a rising star in the realm of astrophysics .

The advancement of stellar theory has been significantly influenced by the study of variable stars, such as Cepheids and RR Lyrae. These particular stars have historically played a vital role, especially with the early 20th century discovery of their period-luminosity relationship. This discovery not only helped demystify the nature of galaxies and the universe’s expansion but also enhanced our general understanding of stellar evolution. Focusing on the properties of Cepheids and RR Lyrae, in particular, allows for a deeper exploration into the dynamics of variable stars, further enriching the field of stellar theory.

Significant volumes of photometric data have been generated by space missions such as CoRoT, Kepler, and TESS, as well as by major photometric surveys including OGLE and MACHO. This abundance of data calls for collaborative efforts from various international sectors. Freely available to astronomers globally, this new data not only poses a challenge but
also provides an opportunity for the worldwide astronomical community to advance in the field of digital data collection and processing.

Application opening date/Application for grant : 15 March


Grant application deadline : 15 June


Application deadline: 15 June