With the goal of bringing astronomy closer to people of all ages and promoting knowledge about the universe, Las Campanas Observatory participated over the past few weeks in several activities held as part of International Asteroid Day and National Astrotourism Day, bringing together thousands of people in different cities across the country.
As part of International Asteroid Day, the observatory took part in two public outreach events. The first was held on June 27 at Pueblito Las Vizcachas in Puente Alto and was organized by AUI/NRAO, where Las Campanas participated alongside the Giant Magellan Telescope (GMT). The second took place on June 30 at the National Museum of Natural History in Santiago during an event organized by the Center for Astrophysics and Associated Technologies (CATA).
This international observance aims to highlight the importance of asteroids both for understanding the origin and evolution of the Solar System and for strengthening planetary defense efforts against potential impacts with Earth.
At both events, Las Campanas Observatory presented an interactive exhibit dedicated to asteroids and comets, where visitors learned about the different regions of the Solar System where these objects are found, their main characteristics, their scientific importance, and the methods used to detect and monitor those that could pose a potential risk to our planet. Together, the events attracted more than 5,000 attendees, who participated in educational activities, games, and conversations with the observatory’s outreach team.
Las Campanas’ participation continued with the celebrations of National Astrotourism Day, established to recognize the value of Chile’s skies as a natural, scientific, and tourism heritage. On this occasion, the observatory took part in two community events.
The first was held in Pisco Elqui, organized by the Paihuano Municipal Tourism Corporation, while the second took place on July 4 at the La Serena Monumental Lighthouse as part of the Stellar Navigators project.
At both events, the Conciencia Astronomía Mobile Lab was present. This initiative, operated jointly by Las Campanas Observatory and the Giant Magellan Telescope, aims to bring interactive science experiences to communities throughout the country. Through experiments, hands-on activities, and educational resources, children, young people, and adults explored concepts related to light, telescopes, astronomical observations, and the exploration of the universe.
On July 4, the event also featured Nidia Morrell, LCO Resident Astronomer, who presented the talk “The Light We See and the Light We Don’t See.”
For Las Campanas Observatory, participating in initiatives like these represents an opportunity to bring scientific research closer to people who do not normally have direct contact with it. Through these activities, the institution reaffirms its commitment to science outreach and education, helping an ever-growing number of people discover the universe and understand the importance of astronomy for the advancement of knowledge and society.