Astrophysical analysis relating to solid matter requires data on properties and processes. Such data, however, expecially appropriate to space conditions are mostly lacking. It appeared then very tempting to gather together experimentalists, ob servers and theoreticians working in the field of cosmic dust and in related areas. The Workshop held in Capri (Italy) from September 8th till 12th 1987 gave the participants a unique opportunity for exchange of ideas and discussions of problems and experimental procedures. Introductory reports were prepared with the aim of giving the state of the art about single subjects; contributed poster papers presented, on the contrary, very recent results in the various fields. According to his specific interest each attendant has also contributed to three Working Groups respectively on a) carbon, b) silicates, c) ice and related topics. Scientifical and technical problems about these items were discussed in great detail. Though no definite answers were given, useful indications come out which will be of some help for future works. In addition to the scientific efforts, the Capodimonte Observatory and the Istituto Universitario Navale sought to give a warm welcome to the participants. Thanks to several sponsors, the LOC could organize some excursions and shows to entertain people during their spare time."

Solid matter in space is crucial in accounting for many processes. In these last years a great improvement of the general knowledge of the problem has been possible due to the increase, in number and quality, of observations and of the laboratory efforts to simulate "cosmic" dust. Theoreticians have also given their contribution in solving some questions and in posing others. Continuing an effort started in 1987, the Astrophysical Groups operating in Naples th th have considered it useful to organize a Workshop in Capri from September 8 to 13 1989 in order to assess the state of the art in such an interesting field as that of "Dusty Objects in the Universe." The subject is, obviously, too wide to be discussed in detail. However, the presence of many experts in different areas provided an updated general picture. Laboratory work has been reviewed, as well as recent observations and theoretical interpretations which concern processes occurring in our Galaxy and in external galaxies. The Workshop gave to participants the unique opportunity of exchanging ideas and of discussing on different themes. In addition, the meeting has been enriched by the presentation of the major technological projects related to ongoing airborne and space mlSSlons. the aim of giving the state of the art about specific Invited papers were prepared with subjects; contributed papers and some selected poster papers presented, on the contrary, the various fields.