As every year, during Science Month we develop an intense agenda of outreach activities, with the purpose of bringing astronomy and understanding of the universe closer to diverse audiences, from students and families to local communities.

Through these activities, ALMA reaffirms its commitment to scientific outreach as a bridge between science and society, strengthening the link between astronomical knowledge, engineering, creativity, and curiosity that inspires new generations to view science with wonder.

The route

Participation began in Santiago with the XIII Summit País Digital 2025, which this year incorporated for the first time an Astronomy Space, dedicated to connecting science, innovation, and the digital future. The inauguration featured remarks by our director, Sean Dougherty, and a presentation by Juande Santander-Vela with the talk “Deciphering the algorithm of the cosmos: ALMA 2030”. Attendees also enjoyed the immersive 3D experience “Virtual Tour of the ALMA Observatory”, which allowed them to explore the Chajnantor plateau and learn how the world’s most advanced radio telescope operates.

The NASA International Space Apps Challenge brought together enthusiasts of different ages and disciplines to work on real challenges in Earth sciences, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and scientific communication. ALMA participated with a talk by Nicolás Lira, EPO Officer, on how collaboration allows advances in science.

In the north, ALMA sponsored the Third San Pedro de Atacama Science Fair, an event that brought together science, astronomy, and ancestral knowledge in the town’s main square. The day included talks, interactive workshops, 3D models, and exhibitions of local research, concluding with a talk called “ALMA’s View of the Universe” given by Andrea Araya, Information Systems and Processes Lead.

Back in Santiago, the observatory participated in the First Science Fair at the Huechuraba Planetarium with the exhibition “ALMA: Exploring the Cosmos from Chile”. Through a large-format photo exhibition and interactive material such as comics, origami, and educational brochures, the activity invited families and schoolchildren to discover ALMA’s scientific work.

One of the most memorable experiences was the talk “The Life of Stars”, presented by astronomer Celia Verdugo at the San Alberto Hurtado School in Quilicura. Targeting tenth-grade students, the talk sparked so much interest that the students extended the conversation for more than 40 minutes, even missing their recess!

“I’m leaving very happy. I didn’t expect this reception from the students. I want to congratulate them and their teachers because their curiosity is definitely there, it’s latent, and they’re living it. It’s been a wonderful experience!” said Celia.

The month continued with ALMA’s participation in the Vitacura 2025 Cultural Festival, where Priscilla Nowajewski, astronomer and climatologist, presented the talk “The Habitable Worlds of ALMA”. About 80 people attended this activity, which also included a virtual reality experience and a visit to the Control Room.

Finally, we participated in the Chuquicamata School Science Fair in Calama, where Danilo Vidal shared his knowledge of astronomy and provided career guidance to students. This fair also had a historic participation of more than 20 educational establishments from Antofagasta, Sierra Gorda, Tocopilla, and Calama.

“Sharing what we do and what we know is part of our purpose. Astronomy not only seeks to understand the universe, it also has the power to connect people, awaken vocations, and raise profound questions about our place in the cosmos. Thank you to those who make this valuable task of bringing our mission to such diverse audiences possible: schoolchildren, families, communities, scientists, leaders, and dreamers. Every encounter counts”.
— Karina Haller, Education & Public Outreach Manager, JAO