Secondary and primary school students from the Astronomy Academy of the Adventist School of Antofagasta (COADAN) in Antofagasta, northern Chile, participated in a series of enriching activities designed to connect them with the fascinating world of astronomy.

The experience began with the visit of three prominent astronomers from the Catholic University of the North (UCN): Danilo González, Francesco Mauro, and Rafael Guerco, together with Astrophysics student Fernanda Agüero. The experts provided training in scientific projects and astronomical research, providing the students with valuable tools and knowledge.

Professional-level Astronomical Projects

Later, the academy students were invited to the UCN, where they presented two astronomical projects focused on stellar motion and cosmic spectrography. This presentation, aimed at undergraduate students of the Astrophysics program, was essential since both investigations will be exhibited at international scientific fairs.

Danilo González, an astronomer at the UCN, highlighted the level of work being done at the COADAN Astronomy Academy and described it as "projects that are carried out by professional astronomers." He also expressed his interest in and desire that "the students continue to delve deeper into their projects and their passion for astronomy and scientific methodology."

[Photo: Personal Archive]

[Photo: Personal Archive]

[Photo: Personal Archive]

The astronomical day continued with practical activities that excited the participants. The first was the observation of the "Comet of the Century" (C/2023 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS). A group of students traveled to route B-55, near Socompa, for a live observation. At 5:40 am, they observed the nucleus of the comet and its extensive hair, which extended more than 20 degrees in the sky, provoking amazement and admiration in the attendees.

The activities culminated with the observation of a partial eclipse in Antofagasta. More than 150 students gathered to witness how part of the moon covered the sun, creating an impressive astronomical spectacle and applying in a practical way concepts that they had only studied theoretically.

"It was certainly a memorable and rewarding experience. We had the opportunity to talk with astronomers and physics students specializing in astronomy, who gave us valuable advice and congratulated us on our work," said Noelia Tapia, a third-year high school student.

International Astronomy Competition in Peru and Mexico

Students from the COADAN Astronomy Academy are about to embark on an academic adventure by participating in an International Astronomy Competition in Peru and Mexico. This preparation process has been a journey of learning and discovery in which young scientists have explored complex topics and developed innovative projects that reflect their passion for the cosmos.

The original article was published on the South American Division Spanish website.