The field of observational cosmology is undergoing a transformative period, driven by the unprecedented precision and depth of data provided by the latest generation of galaxy surveys such as Euclid, the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s LSST (Legacy Survey of Space and Time), and DESI (Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument). These projects are designed to unravel the mysteries of the universe by probing vast cosmic scales, enabling researchers to test the limits of current cosmological models and explore new physics beyond the standard framework of ΛCDM.

This summer school in Observational Cosmology is dedicated to equipping the next generation of scientists with the theoretical background, computational tools, and observational techniques necessary to fully harness the potential of these groundbreaking surveys. The focus will be on key areas that are critical to advancing our understanding of the cosmos:

1. Supernova Cosmology – Understanding Type Ia supernovae as standard candles, which have been pivotal in the discovery of dark energy and continue to refine our understanding of cosmic expansion.
2. Weak Gravitational Lensing – Studying the subtle distortions of galaxy images caused by dark matter, providing insights into the distribution of matter and the nature of dark energy.
3. Galaxy Clustering – Analyzing the large-scale structure of the universe to test the predictions of cosmological models and measure key parameters, such as the rate of cosmic expansion and the growth of structure.
4. Numerical Simulations and Galaxy Formation – Leveraging high-performance simulations to model the complex processes of galaxy formation, merger histories, and the evolution of cosmic structures across time.
5. Beyond ΛCDM Models – Investigating alternative cosmological theories, such as modifications to general relativity, dark energy models, and other physics beyond the standard paradigm to address tensions and anomalies in current observations.