21-25 September 2026 · Diani, Kenya
A multi-scale view of jetted AGN
Join observers and theorists for a deep dive into how relativistic jets and compact radio outflows shape their host galaxies across cosmic scales.
AGN on the Beach II: A multi-scale view of jetted AGN brings the community together in Diani, Kenya to connect high-resolution observations, hydrodynamical simulations, and theory. Relativistic jets are established agents of feedback in AGN, but the role of compact radio outflows — jets or winds — remains uncertain and actively debated. New capabilities in high-resolution radio/mm interferometry, IFU spectroscopy, and sensitive low-frequency imaging, together with advances in hydrodynamical simulations, now show that even low-power or small-scale jets on (sub-)kpc scales can strongly perturb the ISM, driving shocks and turbulence and altering star formation locally. We still lack a picture linking (i) SMBH accretion and jet launching on sub-parsec scales, (ii) observed radio morphologies on pc-kpc scales, and (iii) the net impact on galaxy evolution across environments and cosmic time.
Over five days, the workshop will focus on the open questions at the heart of accretion versus ejection: what primarily sets radio morphology (central engine, environment, or source age); whether the radio-loud/radio-quiet dichotomy reflects distinct physical modes or a continuum; how transitions between radiatively efficient and inefficient accretion show up observationally; and what fraction of low-luminosity/compact radio-AGN ($P_{1.4} < 10^{24}\,\mathrm{W\,Hz^{-1}}$) host jets energetic enough to affect their hosts. It brings together observers working with facilities such as VLBI, e-MERLIN, MeerKAT, LOFAR, JVLA, ALMA, MUSE, and JWST, and simulators modelling jet-ISM coupling, through structured sessions, posters, and breakout discussions.
What is the nature of the low-luminosity/compact radio-AGN? What are they, how do they interact with the surrounding environment, and can they provide feedback? This theme will quantify how low-luminosity and compact jets couple to the ISM, regulate star formation, and influence galaxy growth.
How do we differentiate between outflows driven by accretion disc winds and small-scale jets? What determines the onset and switch between SMBH accretion/ejection modes?
Sub-parsec physics, theory, VLBI probes, and the high-energy domain.
Compare radio morphologies from parsec to kiloparsec scales and link them to environmental drivers.
From pc-to-kpc transitions and multi-frequency imaging: what are the main factors that determine radio-jet morphology?
How do jets (or feedback in general) couple on different scales, and what impact does this have on galaxy evolution and the environment? (i) Feedback at galactic scales; (ii) Feedback at ICM/group and cluster scales
The full session-by-session timetable, with abstracts for every talk and poster, is on the detailed programme page. Times are East Africa Time (UTC+3) and remain indicative until confirmed onsite.
Registration is now closed. Abstract submission has also closed. Thank you to everyone who registered — we look forward to welcoming you in Diani.
The 2026 workshop will take place at Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort on the white-sand shoreline of Diani. The resort provides oceanfront plenary halls, shaded breakout terraces, and ample informal collaboration space overlooking the Indian Ocean.
All plenary, poster, and evening networking events will be hosted on site.
The Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort has offered special bed & breakfast and half-board rates for this conference (Ksh per night, taxes included):
To take advantage of this, contact Winnie at winnie.owino@planhotel.com and mention that you are attending AGN on the Beach II from 21 to 25 September 2026.
Additional accommodation (boutique hotels and guesthouses) sits within a 10-minute drive. If you wish to book alternative accommodation, you can contact Rodah on +254726222444 or jionee@bonfireadventures.com
Extending AGN on the Beach II beyond the conference walls. We believe the cosmos belongs to everyone. Through a public lecture and visits to local schools, we aim to share the joy of astronomy with the communities hosting us — inspiring curiosity and connecting people to the magnificent night sky above the Kenyan coast.
Date: Tuesday, 22 September 2026 | Time: 17:00 till late
Location: Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort
Free entry — all welcome, no scientific background required.
Two outstanding astronomers will speak about galaxies, black holes, and the radio jets that shape the universe, followed by a guided stargazing session with telescopes set up on the beach.
Dates: 21–25 September 2026 | Schools across the Diani and Kwale regions of the Kenyan coast
The outreach team will visit schools across the region during the workshop week, bringing astronomy directly into classrooms. Each visit is hands-on and designed to spark genuine excitement about science.
Target: 21 schools across Diani and Kwale, reaching ~3,000 learners at primary, junior secondary, and senior secondary levels.
The invited speaker line-up will be finalised in the February 2026 announcement. Current confirmed speakers are:
Contributed talks and posters will be selected from submitted abstracts between February and April 2026.
Watch for updates as the SOC finalise the programme.
The AGN on the Beach II workshop is guided by international expertise and supported by a dedicated local team in Kenya.
Registered participants will continue to receive announcements, logistics updates, and any required visa documentation by email.
Questions can be directed to agnonthebeach2026@gmail.com
Social programme
The conference is accompanied by a social programme designed to encourage interaction, collaboration, and engagement in a relaxed coastal setting.
Registration, welcome drink & ice breaker
Registration opens Sunday evening at 17:30 and continues through Monday morning (08:30–09:30). Collect your badge and join fellow participants for a welcome drink and informal ice breaker at the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort Conference Hall.
Welcome reception
An informal gathering on Monday evening at the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort Conference Venue. An excellent opportunity to network, reconnect with colleagues, and meet fellow participants before the scientific programme is fully underway.
Public lecture & stargazing event
A public lecture open to conference participants, school children, and the local community, followed by a stargazing event on the beach. Held at the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort Conference Hall. See Outreach & Public Engagement for full details.
Excursion — Wasini Island
A half-day excursion to the famous Wasini Island, renowned for dolphin spotting. The trip includes a boat journey along the coastline, snorkelling opportunities (weather permitting), and a traditional Swahili seafood lunch. Meeting point: Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort.
Cost: KES 4,000 per person — payment is made on the day of the trip. This includes seafood lunch, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and boat transfer to the island.
Marine Park entrance fee: USD 25 per person (non-residents) — this fee is payable separately at the park. Pack your swimming costume and snorkelling gear!
Full itinerary (Bonfire Adventures)
What to wear & carry: swimwear for swimming and snorkelling, plus a towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat/cap, comfortable sandals or water shoes, a change of clothes, and a waterproof pouch for your phone and valuables. Wasini is a local island community — please wear something modest over your swimwear when on the island and at lunch.
Operated by Bonfire Adventures. Tour consultant: Rodah · +254 726 222 444 · jionee@bonfireadventures.com · download the full itinerary (PDF)
Conference gala dinner
The conference gala dinner takes place on Thursday evening in a beachfront setting at the Diamonds Leisure Beach & Golf Resort. A convivial occasion to celebrate the week's scientific discussions and foster continued collaboration.