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Everything you need to attend

Key details for November 2–5, 2026 in Florence, Italy. Specifics added as confirmed.

DatesMain Science Symposium: November 3–5, 2026
Programming on November 2 is reserved for small, invited groups of current Schmidt Sciences awardees and Observatory System leadership.
LocationFlorence, Italy
VenueApproximately 20 minutes by car from central Florence. Venue and location to be announced soon. Transportation logistics will be provided from the two hotels below.
Participants~180 participants
RegistrationFree
RefreshmentsLunches and a formal conference dinner will be provided.

Accommodation

Hotel room blocks

We have arranged special room blocks for symposium guests at two conveniently located hotels in Florence. Guests are responsible for booking and paying for their accommodation directly with their preferred hotel — please follow the booking instructions below.

We strongly encourage guests to stay at one of these two hotels: they will serve as the primary pick-up and drop-off locations for anticipated event transportation. The symposium venue is approximately 20 minutes by car from central Florence. More information on transportation logistics will be provided closer to the symposium.

Book by September 18, 2026

Booking terms — both hotels

How to book Email your preferred hotel directly by September 18, 2026 and reference “The Schmidt Observatory System Science Symposium.”
Minimum stay Four nights.
City tax & charges A city tax of €7 per person, per night is not included in the room rate and is paid directly to the hotel. An additional 5% contribution for staff may apply.
Payment & guarantee Guests are responsible for paying their hotel charges directly to the hotel. A credit card number and expiration date are required to guarantee the reservation; the hotel will pre-authorize the card 10 days prior to arrival.
Cancellation Individual reservations may be cancelled without penalty up to 10 days before arrival. Cancellations made within 10 days of arrival will be charged the full cost of the reserved stay.