Published online by Cambridge University Press: 13 November 2008
Near-infrared spectro-photometry, at a spectral resolution of ~100, allows to characterize a great variety of stellar sources, from late-typegiants to emission line stars. Various components of the inter-stellar medium can also be traced. This technique can therefore be very fruitful, in addition, for studies of star forming regions, the Milky Way and external galaxies.The outstanding environmental conditions that are expected at Dome C should be favorable to carry out spectro-photometric surveys in the 1 to 2.5 μm region, that would usefully complement space-borne projects.