Why Galaxies care about AGB stars V: 

3D winds in the cosmic matter cycle

November 17 - 21, 2025

The fifth edition of the "Why Galaxies Care About AGB Stars" conference series will bring together researchers working on Asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars, stellar populations, and galaxy evolution to foster collaboration and advance our understanding of the role of AGB stars in the Universe.

AGB stars play a fundamental role in the chemical enrichment of galaxies, the formation of cosmic dust, and the infrared light emitted by evolved stellar populations. However, key uncertainties persist in mass loss, convection, nucleosynthesis, binarity, and circumstellar dust formation, directly impacting both stellar evolution models and extragalactic studies. With recent breakthroughs in high-angular-resolution imaging, 3D stellar modeling, and multi-wavelength observations, this is an exciting time to revisit the impact of AGB stars across cosmic time.

This workshop will be a unique opportunity to discuss the latest observational and theoretical developments, featuring among others recent results from high-resolution imaging, spectroscopic studies, and advanced simulations. Topics will range from AGB stellar physics and dust formation to their impact on unresolved stellar populations and galaxy evolution. In addition, we will brainstorm the role and potential breakthroughs of AGB star research in the E-ELT and beyond era, ensuring that future observational and theoretical efforts align with the next generation of astronomical facilities.

The conference will cover the following themes:

  1. Stellar structure and evolution on and past the AGB
  2. Nucleosynthesis, mixing, and rotation
  3. Convection, Pulsation, dynamical atmospheres, and dust formation 
  4. Circumstellar envelopes and Astrochemistry
  5. Binarity, planets, and disks around AGB stars
  6. Evolution beyond the AGB phase; post-AGB, planetary Nebulae 
  7. The role of AGB stars in the cosmic matter cycle
  8. Resolved and unresolved AGB populations in stellar systems
  9. Galaxy evolution, including the first generations of AGB stars

The meeting will take place in Chile, home to some of the world’s most advanced astronomical facilities, fostering interactions between local and international researchers. Join us to shape the future of AGB research and its connection to galaxy evolution!

Participation is limited to approximately 120 attendees. A registration fee applies.

E-mail: whyagb2025@eso.org

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