Dear Friends and Colleagues,

We are delighted to announce that the IAU Symposium 411, “Star Clusters as Guides to Galaxies – Synergies and New Developments from Upcoming Surveys”, will take place in San Carlos de Bariloche from 22–27 November 2026.

Scientific rationale:

This meeting will bring together advances in star cluster science across cosmic time, from stellar clumps in the high-redshift Universe to star cluster populations in the Local Universe. It will highlight globular cluster studies in the era of wide-field surveys and simulations in a cosmological context. The symposium will also explore high-energy phenomena and intermediate-mass black holes in clusters, along with new statistical and artificial intelligence approaches. Connections between stellar populations, internal dynamics, and galaxy evolution will be emphasized, together with perspectives from upcoming observational facilities. We expect a diverse and engaged community with vibrant interest in understanding the progress made so far and which directions will the field move into in the upcoming era of large sky surveys and powerful computers.

Conference webpage: https://iaus411.fcaglp.unlp.edu.ar/

Location:

The conference will be held in San Carlos de Bariloche, a picturesque town in northern Patagonia. In November, late spring brings mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and long daylight hours, offering ideal conditions to enjoy the region’s crystal-clear lakes and surrounding national parks. Visitors can take advantage of outdoor activities such as hiking and lake excursions, along with a lively center known for its artisanal chocolate and inviting restaurants. Easily accessible from Buenos Aires, Bariloche provides an inspiring setting for the conference.

The venue can accommodate around 180 participants and unfortunately we cannot offer remote attendance.

Abstract submission commences on April 1st 2026.
We encourage to make a pre-registration on the conference site:
https://iaus411.fcaglp.unlp.edu.ar/?page_id=20
We will send updates and reminders about deadlines.

For more details, visit: https://iaus411.fcaglp.unlp.edu.ar/

Contact: iaus411.starclusters@gmail.com
Instagram account: @iau411starclusters

Key dates:
Pre-registration open!
Abstract submission & Grant Application: April 1st – April 30th
Programme Announcement by mid May
Early Bird Registration from April 15th to June 1st
Regular Rate from June 2nd to August 1st
Late Rate after August 1st

Best wishes,
Ana Chies Santos, Angela Adamo, Anahi Granada, Celeste Parisi, Juan P. Caso, Kristen Dage

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