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Résumé: Reionization of cosmic hydrogen is an important milestone in the formation of structures in the Universe as it connects the small inhomogeneities observed at the last-scattering epoch (through CMBR) to the highly non-linear structures (i.e., galaxies, clusters) we see today. Understanding reionization gives us important clues as to how the first non-linear structures (first galaxies, first stars) in the Universe formed and how they affected subsequent structure formation. Similarly, reionization of singly-ionized helium, which is believed to have occurred at much later epochs, may contain several clues regarding the thermal state of the IGM at z ~ 3.

The goal of this meeting is to bring together specialists, both observers and theorists, to discuss recent progress made in the field. In addition, the meeting would also focus on what to expect from upcoming experiments as well as the progress expected on the theoretical front. A number of related issues: early galaxy formation, feedback effects, UV background, generation and dispersion of metals and magnetic fields in the inter-galactic medium will also be discussed in order to put the epoch of reionization studies in a proper perspective.