CATA brought astronomy to the Institute of Public Health

The activity was led by astronomer and science communicator José Utreras, who gave health workers and their families the opportunity to enjoy an astronomy talk as part of Children's Day celebrations.

As part of the scientific outreach program of the Center for Astrophysics and Related Technologies (CATA), a talk entitled “What if the Moon had never existed?” was held at the Institute of Public Health (ISP) in the municipality of Ñuñoa. The activity was aimed at the children of the institute’s staff as part of Children’s Day, attracting a total of 40 participants.

The talk was given by José Utreras, CATA Outreach Coordinator and Doctor of Astronomy, who addressed key concepts about this natural satellite and presented the hypothetical case of what would have happened if it had never existed.

“We all know the Moon; it’s the first object we observe with telescopes and it’s full of myths and stories, but it also has a direct influence on our planet. I wanted us to imagine how different Earth would be. The reception was great; the children had very creative and fun questions, many of which we astronomers sometimes ask ourselves,” said Utreras.

Through a dynamic and engaging presentation, the astronomer sparked the interest of the children and staff members in attendance, answering questions and creating a space for scientific dialogue. Marcia Alfaro, Head of the ISP’s Subdepartment of People Management and Development, praised CATA for reaching out to the institution to promote scientific outreach.

“It is very important for us that these opportunities exist and that we involve children in this scientific outreach in the field of astronomy and science in general. We are also interested in science, and we try to reflect that in our management and personnel development functions, which also extend to the children of ISP employees,” the official said.

This activity is part of CATA’s commitment to scientific outreach, bringing knowledge of astronomy to different institutions and audiences across the country.