We present the results of the investigation of 58 open clusters using UBVRI CCD photometry (Johnsons-Cousins system) and Gaia eDR3 data. The membership probability of the stars in the cluster’s field was determined from a maximum likelihood method using Gaia eDR3 astrometric data. The fundamental parameters of the clusters were determined using a robust global optimization method to fit theoretical model isochrones to UBVRI ground-based and Gaia eDR3 photometric data respectively. We estimated mean proper motion, mean parallax and fundamental parameters considering the member stars for 25 clusters. Based on the high quality Gaia eDR3 data, the remaining objects of the sample were found to be likely not real . The real clusters are situated from 900 pc to 3000 pc with ages from about 6 Myr to 2.5 Gyr. The results of the distances and ages obtained for both independent sets of data are in agreement indicating that our method to determine distances and ages using GBP and GRPGaia eDR3 data is reliable.

We report a search and analysis of obscured cluster candidates in the “VISTA Variables in the Via Lactea eXtended (VVVX)” ESO Public Survey area encompassing the region between 229○.4 < l < 295○.2 and −4○.3 < b < 4○.4 of the southern Galactic disk. We discover and propose 88 new clusters. We improve the completeness of the embedded cluster population in this region, adding small size (linear diameters of 0.2-1.4 pc) and relatively far objects (heliocentric distance between 2 and 4 kpc) to existing catalogues. Nine candidates are proposed to be older open cluster candidates. Three of them (VVVX CL 204,  207,  208) have sufficient numbers of well-resolved stellar members to allow us to determine some basic cluster parameters. We confirm their nature as older, low-mass open clusters. Photometric analysis of 15 known clusters shows that they have ages above 20 Myr, and masses below 2000 M⊙: in general, their proper motions follow the motion of the disk. We outline some groups of clusters, most probably formed within the same dust complex. Broadly, our candidates follow the network of filamentary structure in the remaining dust. Thus, in this part of the southern disk of the Galaxy, we have found recent star formation, producing small size and young clusters, in addition to the well known, massive young clusters, including NGC 3603, Westerlund 2 and the Carina Nebula Complex.