Title: Cosmic Fireworks: A Cambridge Extragalactic Transients Workshop
Date: 28th January 2026
Location: Kavli Institute Martin Ryle Seminar Room
Organisers: Lisa Kelsey, Matt Grayling, Nikhil Sarin
Extragalactic transients are some of the most spectacular and informative events, transforming our view of the universe. The landscape of cosmic explosions, from supernovae and tidal disruption events, to gamma-ray bursts, fast radio bursts and the electromagnetic counterparts to gravitational waves, is ever-growing, and will continue to do so in this new large survey era. Cambridge is home to a thriving community working across these areas, spanning multiple research groups with a wide range of expertise.
Cosmic Fireworks is a one-day meeting to celebrate this expertise, and bring together Cambridge researchers who study (or are curious about) any aspect of extragalactic time-domain astrophysics, whether rapid transients, longer-term variability, or the tools and theory that underpin them. We hope that this day will spark new conversations, highlight the breadth of research, and inspire new collaborations across communities.
We warmly invite abstract submissions for both contributed and flash presentations. Researchers at all career stages, particularly students and early career researchers are encouraged to submit for a talk.
We welcome contributions on any topic related to extragalactic transients, including (but not limited to):
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Supernovae, TDEs, GRBs, FRBs
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Gravitational-wave counterparts
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Quasars and AGN variability
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Survey science and data pipelines
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Modelling, simulations and theory
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Statistical and ML approaches
The meeting will run approximately 09:00-17:00, with breaks, lunch, and an optional informal dinner/drinks afterwards. A schedule and final details will be confirmed closer to the date.
Registration/abstract submission is now open: https://forms.office.com/e/qH9D4v9xLt
Abstract submission deadline: 12th January 2026
Registration deadline: 19th January 2026
