Large telescopes (2m and above) excel in the studies of faint objects at the edge of the observable Universe and high-angular and spectral resolution of astrophysically important objects. Small telescopes (up to 2m diameter), however, are valuable in astronomical research doing long-term monitoring, continuous observations (e.g., WET), or large-scale surveys. The large flotile of small telescopes can often provide observations which would be cost prohibitive at large telescopes. Most of astrophysically crucial objects are still being discovered through extensive all-sky surveys run by robotic telescopes. Small telescopes continue to play a vital role in recruiting and training the next generation of astronomers and instrumentalists, and serve as test beds for developments of novel instruments and experimental methods for larger telescopes.

This year we will celebrate the 70th anniversary of the first observation at the Astronomical Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (AI SAS) and the 50th anniversary of Faculty of Science of P.J. Šafárik University (UPJŠ) in Košice. Moreover, this year is a milestone in instrumentation developement at both institutions. Thanks to the the European Regional Development Fund (ITMS No. 26220120029) AI SAS is installing a new 1.3 m telescope at the Skalnaté Pleso Observatory. Several advanced focal instruments are being developed for this and several smaller telescopes at both AI SAS and UPJŠ. Organizing this workshop we cordially invite ideas and discussions on the technological developments and scientific programs applications of small-size and robotic telescopes.

The workshop will be held at the headquarters of Astronomical Institute of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Stará Lesná, on September 23-26, 2013. The conference is co-organized by the Faculty of Science of P.J. Šafárik University in Košice.