Stellar model fits and inversions

The recent asteroseismic data from the CoRoT and Kepler missions have provided an entirely new basis for investigating stellar properties. This has led to a rapid development in techniques for analysing such data, although it is probably fair to say that we are still far from having the tools required for the full use of the potential of the observations. Here I provide a brief overview of some of the issues related to the interpretation of asteroseismic data.Comment: Proc. ESF Conference : "The Modern Era of Helio- and Asteroseismology", Obergurgl, 20 - 25 May, 2012. To appear in Astron. Nach. Guest editor: Markus Rot

Open issues in stellar modelling

An important goal of helio- and asteroseismology is to improve the modelling of stellar evolution. Here I provide a brief discussion of some of the uncertain issues in stellar modelling, of possible relevance to asteroseismic inferences.Comment: Proc. HELAS Workshop on `New insights into the Sun', eds M. S. Cunha and M. J. Thompson (invited talk

The Sun as a fundamental calibrator of stellar evolution

The Sun is unique amongst stars in having a precisely determined age which does not depend on the modelling of stellar evolution. Furthermore, other global properties of the Sun are known to much higher accuracy than for any other star. Also, helioseismology has provided detailed determination of the solar internal structure and rotation. As a result, the Sun plays a central role in the development and test of stellar modelling. Here I discuss solar modelling and its application to tests of asteroseismic techniques for stellar age determination.Comment: To appear in Proc. IAU Symposium 258, The Ages of Stars, eds E. E. Mamajek, D. R. Soderblom & R. F. G. Wyse, IAU and Cambridge University Pres