We describe an ongoing effort to validate the estimated atmospheric parameters (Teff, log g, [Fe/H]) obtained from SDSS spectroscopy (R = 2000) and ugriz photometry, which are being employed for both the previous SDSS-I and the ongoing SEGUE surveys. The spectroscopic pipeline makes use of a number of methods for the estimation of each parameter

We discuss the status of the calibration programme for CanariCam and related initiatives that aim to provide quality calibration facilities for users of the GTC and other telescopes. We have Visible and IR photometry of >300 stars apt for the calibration of CanariCam giving an initial density of ~ 1 star per 100 square degrees of sky. The

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We present the results of the optical photometric observations of the Pleiades (125 Myr) cluster. The aim of this research is to look for variability, both due to rotation of single stars and the presence of eclipsing binaries. We have used differential photometry and two different methods of statistical analysis of the data. We have found

We present the detailed spectral analysis of a sample of M33 B-type supergiant stars, aimed at the determination of their fundamental parameters and chemical composition. The analysis is based on a grid of non-LTE metal line-blanketed model atmospheres including the effects of stellar winds and spherical extension computed with the code FASTWIND

Bars are prominent features that occur in most disc galaxies and have important dynamical effects on their hosts. This paper describes some of the known properties of bars, illustrating the discussion with images that show the beauty of the galaxies under consideration. The focus of this article is on the evolution of bars and on their influence on