On Sunday, May 31, ALMA took part in the latest edition of Cultural Heritage Day at the Cerro Calán National Astronomical Observatory, an event organized by the Department of Astronomy at the University of Chile that drew more than 12,600 visitors to a free, open-house event for the entire community.

The event attracted families, children, youth, and adults interested in learning more about astronomy, science, and technology through talks, tours, and interactive experiences developed by various institutions linked to the world of astronomy.

In this context, ALMA participated with a booth specially designed to bring the observatory’s work closer to the public in an educational and accessible way. The space stood out for its visual presentation, featuring images of the site where the ALMA antennas are located, allowing visitors to learn more about the observatory’s surroundings and characteristics.

One of the main attractions was a new robotic model of an ALMA antenna, capable of replicating the actual movements of these instruments. The experience sparked great interest among attendees, especially among children, who also participated in educational and recreational activities aimed at discovering how astronomy allows us to observe what is not visible to the naked eye.

Highlights of the activities included games with color filters, activities to identify celestial objects using “pixels,” and “CruciALMA”—initiatives designed to promote learning in a fun and family-friendly way.

“We particularly value these events because they reflect how collaboration between observatories, universities, and scientific organizations enables us to create meaningful experiences for the community. These opportunities challenge us to constantly renew the experience we offer to those who visit our booth, incorporating new activities, interactive resources, and ways to connect people with the work ALMA does and with astronomy in general,” said Karina Haller, ALMA’s Education & Public Outreach Manager.

Throughout the day, the booth welcomed visitors of all ages, who asked questions about how the antennas work, radio astronomy, opportunities to visit ALMA, and how to become part of the scientific and astronomical community.

ALMA’s participation in Heritage Day reaffirms its commitment to science outreach and to continuing to create opportunities for interaction between astronomy and the community, helping to spark curiosity and interest in exploring our cosmic origins.