The aim of the course is to provide a coherent and state-of-the-art account of instruments and techniques in use in astronomy and astrophysics. In a multiband approach, the course deals with structure of the instrumentation and criteria to evaluate and optimize their performances. It foresees a number of “external” contributions from specialists in specific areas. The course foresees as well visits to, and interactions with external laboratories. Thus, after getting common foundations, the students will be exposed to the most modern advances, in an area in continuous and fast evolution. On a side, students with specific interest in instrumentation will reach an effective starting point to be involved in instrumental projects, in scientific institutes or industries. On another side, students more interested in astrophysical results will reach a fair understanding of the observing processes which are the ground of the following developments. As a further, not minor aim, the course would contribute to reduce the present trend to enlarge the gap between “instrumentation” and “astrophysics”.
