We propose an international in-person meeting of the Transient and Variable Stars (TVS) Science Collaboration (SC) dedicated to systematically evaluate the first early science results from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST), following the First Look milestone, the Data Preview 2, and the start of the operations in 2026. Scheduled following the progress of the first year of operations in late 2026, this meeting will serve as a critical forum for the TVS Science Collaboration to analyze unprecedented datasets and coordinate future scientific strategies.
Hosted by INAF-Osservatorio Astronomico di Palermo in the third week of December 2026, the meeting will bring together the >700 members of the TVS SC to analyze the unprecedented early datasets, coordinate multi-facility follow-up strategies, and define the community-wide strategies for AI-driven discovery within the variable and transient sky. Dedicated sessions will focus on AI/ML methodologies for real-time alert classification, anomaly detection, and scalable light-curve analysis on early LSST data products, directly supporting the TVS SC Roadmap priorities.
The meeting will strongly support training of early-career researchers and new Rubin users and participants from under-represented communities, fostering inclusive and sustainable growth of the TVS ecosystem. Financial support is possible under request.
To ensure we secure the right venue size, catering, and accommodations, we are currently gathering an estimate of our total attendee count. If you are considering attending in person, please take 30 seconds to let us know by clicking the link below:
👉 https://forms.gle/5AbUUNxzocsQfLAg6
Please note: Filling out this form is simply an expression of interest and does not commit you to attending, nor does it secure an official registration. Formal registration will open soon!
Please submit your response by October 9 to help us plan the best possible experience. Thanks for you time!