Clouds over the Pyrenees
(Benasque Science Center, Sep 06 - Sep 19, 2026)

Organizers:

Ó. Jiménez-Arranz (Lund University, Sweden), M. Romero-Gómez (ICCUB, Spain), D. Horta (University of Edinburgh, UK), N. Garavito-Camargo (University of Arizona, EEUU), G. Besla (University of Arizona, EEUU)

As the largest satellite galaxies and closest siblings of the Milky Way, the LMC and SMC have long piqued scientific curiosity. Exploring galaxy formation and evolution in the lower-mass regime is made possible by the comprehensive view of this interacting system. Their linked star formation histories can be deduced thanks to deep photometry, and time-domain studies have found variable star populations that show their three-dimensional structure. When combined with accurate astrometry from Gaia, spectroscopic surveys not only shed light on the chemical abundances of stars but also enable a detailed resolution of the system's internal and global kinematics. According to recent research, the LMC has a significant impact on the Milky Way's gravitational potential and, consequently, on other satellites and streams that orbit the galaxy.

Following the success of the 'XMC: Milky Clouds over Manhattan' (2024) and 'XMC II: Clouds over Yellowstone' (2025), we present the third edition of the series 'XMC III: Clouds over the Pyrenees'. In this workshop, we will continue the discussions and open new conversations on the formation, content, and evolution of the Clouds, and their interactions both with each other. During the workshop, we also intend to discuss theoretical advancements in galactic dynamics and star formation physics, and how to incorporate them into simulations of the Clouds.

This two-week workshop will be the most hands-on event in the 'Clouds over' series, designed for active collaboration and co-creation. With a strict cap of 50 participants, it provides a space to work side by side on projects, foster new partnerships, and engage directly with peers. The workshop is designed for in-person participation. Limited online attendance may be explored for some activities.

To apply for in-person participation, participants must submit a PDF abstract (Part 1/2, see details below) and complete the following Google Form (Part 2/2, application here). Applications will only be considered if both steps are completed. If you wish to attend online (option not guaranteed; depends on demand and logistics), please fill out the Google Form only and do not upload a PDF abstract on this webpage.

Responses to both forms will help the SOC assess the community interests and guide the final decision about the format of the workshop. Depending on participation and interests, the SOC may also use the responses to organize collaborative, hands-on teams aimed at bringing together diverse expertise and fostering multidisciplinary interactions where participants can learn from one another while addressing shared questions and projects.

List of main topics

- Internal Kinematics and Structure
- XMC Periphery and their Streams
- LMC-SMC interaction
- Star Formation History / Abundances
- Stellar populations
- ISM
- Lessons from the Milky Way: transferable methods to the XMC

Call for participation

Abstract submission should be done through here.

* Abstracts files should be 1 page abstract in .pdf format
* The use of graphics in the abstract is optional.
* A complete editable abstract example and guidelines could be downloaded here.
* You have to be registered before abstract submission

Abstract deadline: January 15
Decisions on abstracts will be notified on: March 01

Registration fee information

Bus transportation

Registration & accommodation