Astronomy Day was held at the Santiago Library

Through the workshops “Let's Draw the Moon!” and “Create Your Nebula!”, and a solar observation session, the activity organized in conjunction with CATA brought astronomy closer to children in a public space open to the community.

The Center for Astrophysics and Associated Technologies – CATA (ANID Basal Center) took part in a science outreach event alongside the Santiago Library, offering astronomy workshops and a solar observation experience with the aim of bringing science closer to children. The activity took place in the Youth Room and on the esplanade of the premises, attracting families who visited the library during the holiday period.

This event was mainly aimed at children between the ages of 8 and 12, who were free to join the various sessions without prior registration. The CATA team consisted of José Utreras, the Center’s Content and Outreach Coordinator; Edmundo Albornoz, Outreach Analyst; and monitors Silvio Ulloa and Bárbara Riquelme, both astronomers.

The public was able to participate in workshops entitled “Let’s draw the Moon!” and “Create your own Nebula!”, combining art and science as a fun way to learn about the universe. In addition, solar observation sessions were held using telescopes, allowing attendees to view the Sun safely under the guidance of the CATA outreach team.

Regarding the value of this collaboration, José Utreras emphasized that “the Santiago Library is a meeting place for the community. Bringing astronomy activities to a public library has special value, as it allows science to be brought closer to people of all ages in an everyday, accessible space. For CATA, this collaboration is especially significant, and we hope to continue it in the future,” said the astronomer.

With these types of activities, CATA reaffirms its commitment to scientific outreach and community engagement, fostering interest in astronomy and science in general through participatory and accessible experiences.