On Friday, November 7, 2025, Las Campanas Observatory held a moving ceremony to bid farewell to eight members of its staff who retired during the month of October.
Each of them has been an essential part of the collective history that brings the observatory to life. Throughout their careers, they trained new generations, inspired their colleagues, and forged human bonds that transcend the workplace. Their experience, dedication, and commitment have contributed decisively to the growth and consolidation of the institution, leaving a deep mark on its scientific and human community.
Those honored were Juan Espoz Escobar and Jorge Olivares Páez, mechanics and heavy machinery operators in the Maintenance Department of the Mountain Management, led by Marcelo Rodríguez; Hugo Rivera Zúñiga, telescope operator and technical assistant for Night Operations in the Technical Department, led by Francesco Di Mille; Hernán Ángel Rivera, courier driver for El Pino General Services, part of the Administration and Human Resources Department, headed by Roberto Bermúdez; Reinaldo Vega Ubilla and Iván Barraza Castillo, comprehensive service assistants in the same department; Luis González Castillo, service assistant in Mountain Management, headed by Max Aguilar; and Gastón Gutiérrez Pizarro, daytime support technician in Daytime Operations, in the Technical Department led by Povilas Palunas.
During the ceremony, the importance of each person's contribution to the various areas of the observatory was highlighted—from telescope operation and technical support to essential maintenance and general services—all of which are fundamental to the daily operation of Las Campanas.
The meeting concluded with words of thanks and recognition from their colleagues and supervisors, followed by a moment of camaraderie that reflected the appreciation and gratitude of the entire observatory community toward those who dedicated years of work and commitment to the institution.
