Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Vatican Observatory

The Vatican Observatory, known in as Specola Vaticana, is an astronomical and operated by the , dedicated to advancing scientific understanding of the universe while fostering dialogue between faith and science. Established formally on March 14, 1891, by through the Ut mysticam, it traces its origins to 1578 with the construction of the in and earlier Jesuit astronomical efforts dating back to the . Headquartered in the Papal Palace at , , since its relocation there in to escape urban light , the Observatory also maintains a major research facility in , established in 1981 as the Vatican Observatory Research Group (VORG). The Observatory's primary mission is to conduct cutting-edge astronomical research, promote education in the sciences, and demonstrate the Catholic Church's commitment to scientific inquiry, countering historical misconceptions about . Key facilities include the historic telescopes at , such as the 1930s Zeiss refractor, and the advanced (VATT) on in , completed in 1993 through collaboration with the and featuring innovative technology. Its library houses over 22,000 volumes, including rare works by Copernicus and Galileo, alongside a significant collection of meteorites for study. Historically, the Observatory has made pioneering contributions to astronomy, including Father Angelo Secchi's mid-19th-century classification of stars by their spectra, which laid the groundwork for modern stellar , and the multi-decade Carte du Ciel project (1891–1950s), an international effort to create a comprehensive photographic sky atlas. In the 20th century, it advanced laboratory analysis of stellar compounds and tracked variable stars, while more recent work has explored , galaxies, , meteorite properties, and potential exoplanetary habitability. Staffed primarily by Jesuit priests and lay scholars, the Observatory publishes in peer-reviewed journals and hosts the biennial Vatican Observatory Summer Schools () since , training over 400 postgraduate students from around the world in . Through these efforts, it continues to bridge scientific discovery with theological reflection, exemplified by workshops on topics like divine action and during Pope John Paul II's papacy.

History

Origins and Early Developments

The Catholic Church's engagement with astronomy originated in the late , driven by the need to reform the , which had accumulated a drift of about 10 days by that time. In 1582, commissioned a committee of scholars, including the Jesuit mathematician from the , to devise a more accurate system for calculating dates, particularly the . Clavius played a pivotal role in the computations, authoring a detailed explanation of the reform that adjusted the calendar by omitting 10 days and refining rules, resulting in the still in use today. This scientific initiative laid the groundwork for institutional astronomical observation within the . The first formal papal observatory, known as the Specola Vaticana, was established in 1774 under at the (Torre dei Venti) in the , originally built in 1578 for calendar studies. The facility was equipped with early telescopes, including a Dollond refractor, primarily for meteorological monitoring and basic celestial observations to support timekeeping and navigation. Jesuit astronomers at the nearby , such as Giuseppe Calandrelli, who directed observations from 1781, conducted meridian transits and planetary studies, contributing to the Church's growing reputation in practical astronomy. In the early , astronomical efforts expanded amid the restoration of the Jesuit order in , leading to renewed activity at the Observatory. This period saw contributions to star cataloging, with astronomers like Calandrelli compiling positional data for fundamental stars to aid in nautical almanacs and surveys. A notable event was the 1827 founding of the Capitol Observatory on the Torre Calandrelli. By 1840, under director Francesco de Vico at the , the observatory had evolved into a key site for discoveries and systematic stellar measurements, bridging early observational traditions with emerging spectroscopic techniques.

Modern Era and Relocations

In the late , amid growing urban expansion in that hindered astronomical observations, re-established the Vatican Observatory in 1891, formally confirming its foundation through the Ut Mysticam and placing it under the auspices of the . The new facility was housed in St. John's Tower in the Vatican Gardens, equipped with an for the international Carte du Ciel project to map the heavens photographically. This relocation addressed both practical observational challenges and broader perceptions of conflict between science and faith, reaffirming the Church's commitment to astronomical research. By the early , increasing from 's growth again compromised the site's efficacy, prompting further institutional reforms. In 1930, initiated plans for a new headquarters, leading to the construction of dedicated buildings at the Papal Summer Residence in , approximately 25 kilometers southeast of . The relocation was completed in 1935, with the inauguration of the Specola Vaticana featuring a Zeiss double and a spectrochemical , marking a significant upgrade in facilities and enabling renewed focus on and stellar . This move not only mitigated environmental obstacles but also integrated the Observatory more closely with the papal estates, enhancing its administrative stability. The post-World War II era brought new collaborations to sustain advanced research amid evolving challenges. In 1981, the Vatican Observatory established the Vatican Observatory Research Group (VORG) at the University of Arizona's Steward Observatory in Tucson, fostering joint projects and access to superior instrumentation. encroaching on in the 1980s necessitated further adaptation, culminating in a 1987 partnership with the Steward Observatory and the Vatican Observatory Foundation to develop the (VATT). Dedicated in 1993 on in southeastern , the VATT provided dark-sky access for high-resolution observations, supporting studies in cosmology and galactic structure. Administrative adjustments continued into the 21st century to balance heritage preservation with modern needs. In early 2008, the announced the relocation of the Observatory's headquarters from the Papal Palace in to a renovated building in the adjacent Papal Gardens—formerly a —for administrative and laboratory functions, with the move completed by 2009. This partial shift allowed research staff to concentrate more fully in Tucson while maintaining the historic site for education. In 2023, the Specola Vaticana opened within the Papal Summer Villa Gardens, offering public guided tours of the astronomical domes and exhibits on the Observatory's legacy, reopening the site to visitors after decades of limited access. As of 2025, recent developments include the ongoing digitization of historical photographic plates from 1893 to 1986 and the cataloging of collections by VORG staff, facilitating integration with global databases and supporting interdisciplinary analyses for missions like those of .

Organization and Leadership

Governance Structure

The Vatican Observatory functions as a scientific apostolate of the Holy See, established in its current institutional form in 1930 by to advance astronomical research in alignment with Church teachings, and it maintains direct reporting lines to the Governatorate of State while collaborating closely with the and the Jesuit order. This structure ensures operational autonomy for long-term research projects, as outlined in of Title V of the Law on the Government of State (enacted November 25, 2018), allowing the Observatory to pursue initiatives free from typical academic pressures like short-term grants. Funding for the Observatory comes primarily from the , reflecting a commitment to scientific inquiry as an extension of its mission, with core support supplemented by private donations through the Vatican Observatory , a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that raised approximately $1.6 million in for equipment maintenance, education, and collaborations, as well as partnerships with institutions like the for telescope operations. The organizational framework includes a core research staff of about 20 astronomers, comprising Jesuit priests and brothers alongside lay scientists from diverse continents, supported by an administrative team handling operations at sites in and . An international , affiliated with the Foundation, provides strategic guidance on outreach and funding priorities. In 2025, following a transition, appointed Father Richard D’Souza, S.J., as Director effective September 19, reinforcing the Observatory's role in broader initiatives on ethics and faith-science dialogue, including workshops on the peaceful uses of space under auspices.

Directors and Key Personnel

The Vatican Observatory has been led by a series of Jesuit astronomers since the early , with the directorship reflecting the institution's evolution from classical astronomy to modern and interdisciplinary studies. The modern observatory, established in 1891, saw its first director in Father Francesco Denza, S.J., who served from 1891 to 1894 and initiated key projects like the Carte du Ciel. Subsequent leaders included Father Giuseppe Lais (acting director, 1894–1898), Father Johann Georg Hagen, S.J. (1906–1930), who reorganized operations and completed the Astrographic Catalogue, Father Johan Willem Stein, S.J. (1930–1952), overseeing the relocation to , Father Daniel O’Connell, S.J. (1952–1970), focused on variable stars, Father Patrick Treanor, S.J. (1970–1978), who advanced research on , and Father George Coyne, S.J. (1978–2006), instrumental in promoting the (VATT) and establishing the Vatican Observatory Research Group in Tucson. Following Coyne, Father José Gabriel Funes, S.J., directed the observatory from 2006 to 2015, expanding adjunct astronomer programs and emphasizing science-faith dialogue. Brother , S.J., succeeded him in 2015, serving until 2025 as director and president of the Vatican Observatory Foundation; renowned for his expertise in meteorites and , Consolmagno enhanced public outreach through publications and lectures, earning the 2014 Medal for Excellence in Public Communication in from the American Astronomical Society's Division for Planetary Sciences. In a significant leadership transition, appointed Father Richard Anthony D'Souza, S.J., as the new director on July 31, 2025, effective September 19, 2025; D'Souza, who joined the staff in 2016 after earning a in astronomy from , specializes in galactic dynamics and now serves as superior of the observatory's Jesuit community, succeeding Consolmagno, who became director emeritus. Among key personnel, Father George Coyne stands out historically for his 28-year tenure, during which he fostered international collaborations and the VATT's development, bridging astronomy with theological reflection. Brother Guy Consolmagno's contributions extended beyond leadership to curating the observatory's meteorite collection and advocating for harmony between and , including authorship of like Would You Baptize an ?. Current vice directors include Father Pavel Gabor, S.J., who oversees administration and contributes to research, and Father Gabriele Gionti, S.J., managing the site with a focus on cosmology. Notably, Sister Natalia Zotov, O.P., became the first woman to work as a staff at the observatory in the 1990s, spending two summers there on cosmological studies before her academic career in physics. The observatory's staff, predominantly , underscores the broader tradition of the Society of Jesus in astronomical pursuits since the .

Facilities and Equipment

Castel Gandolfo Site

The Vatican Observatory's headquarters is located within the Papal Villas at , , situated in the approximately 25 kilometers southeast of at coordinates 41°44′50″N 12°39′02″E. This site was established as the observatory's primary base following its relocation from the Vatican Gardens in the early 1930s due to increasing in . Construction of the observatory facilities began in 1932 and was largely completed by 1935, incorporating two observation domes integrated into the , which served as the papal summer residence until 2014. The architectural design features two prominent wooden rotating domes: a larger one measuring 8.5 meters in diameter housing the visual refractor, positioned atop the palace's spiral staircase, and a smaller 8-meter dome for the on the northeast corner. These structures were built to accommodate advanced instrumentation while blending with the historic papal estate, originally constructed in the . Key historical telescopes include the 1935 Zeiss Double , a 16-inch (40 cm) refractor designed for the international Carte du Ciel project to photographically map the sky, featuring a 60 cm reflector component and large 30x30 cm photographic plates. Another significant instrument is the 1935 Visual Refractor, also 16 inches (40 cm) in with a 600 cm , equipped with accessories like a Graff and Danjon stellar interferometer for precise stellar observations. Older equipment, such as the 1893 Merz refractor with a 10 cm on an , has been preserved as museum pieces. Following the relocation of active astronomical observations to remote sites in the and 1990s, the facility has transitioned into an administrative and archival center, supporting the observatory's ongoing scholarly work. It houses a specialized containing over 22,000 volumes, including rare texts by astronomers such as Copernicus, Galileo, and Secchi, alongside a collection. In 2023, the Specola Vaticana opened to the public, offering guided tours of the historic domes and exhibits on astronomical heritage, accessible via the .

Mount Graham and Other Remote Facilities

The (VATT) serves as the Vatican Observatory's primary remote observational facility, located at the in southeastern , . Situated at coordinates 32°42′05″N 109°53′31″W and an elevation of 10,469 feet (3,191 meters), the telescope was dedicated in September 1993 following its first light earlier that year. This 1.8-meter aperture Gregorian reflector features a fast f/1.0 primary mirror made of lightweight, honeycombed , spin-cast and polished at the University of Arizona's Mirror Laboratory, paired with a 0.38-meter f/0.9 secondary mirror for an effective f/9 focus with a 16.48-meter . The design incorporates advanced features such as for improved image quality and capabilities for optical and observations, enabling high-resolution studies of celestial objects. Operated in partnership with the University of Arizona's Steward Observatory through the Vatican Observatory Research Group (VORG), established in to facilitate U.S.-based astronomical research, the VATT benefits from shared expertise in telescope operations and . The partnership originated from efforts to relocate observational activities from light-polluted sites in , allowing Vatican astronomers to conduct remote observations while maintaining administrative headquarters at . The facility's compact alt-azimuth mount and enclosed dome minimize atmospheric distortion, supporting precise tracking and data collection. The development and construction of the VATT were marked by environmental and cultural controversies from 1988 to 1993, primarily involving opposition from the San Carlos Apache Tribe, who consider (Dzil Nchaa Si An) a sacred site central to their religious practices, as well as concerns over impacts to the endangered Mount Graham red squirrel habitat. These disputes led to legal challenges and protests, culminating in federal agreements under the Endangered Species Act and the that permitted construction with mitigation measures, including protected areas for wildlife and cultural sites. As of 2025, the VATT remains fully operational, enhanced by 2024 upgrades to a fully automated robotic system called "," which enables remote control from the Vatican Observatory in without on-site personnel. Beyond the VATT, the Vatican Observatory maintains no other permanent remote facilities, relying instead on occasional access to international telescopes through scientific collaborations to supplement its observational capacity. For instance, researchers participate in joint programs with organizations like the , allowing use of facilities such as the array for specialized projects. This collaborative approach ensures broad access to advanced instrumentation while focusing permanent resources on the VATT and sites.

Research Activities

Astronomical and Astrophysical Research

The Vatican Observatory has a long history of contributions to astronomical surveys, beginning with its participation in the 19th-century Carte du Ciel project, an international effort to create a comprehensive photographic map of the sky. Using the Double Astrograph installed in 1935 at , the observatory captured detailed astrographic plates to standardize stellar positions and magnitudes, aiding in the cataloging of millions of stars down to 13th magnitude. This work exemplified early systematic sky mapping and laid foundational data for subsequent astrometric studies. In the modern era, the (VATT) on has enabled significant research on outer solar system objects, including a 15-year analysis of objects from the 2000s to the 2020s. This project utilized VATT's high-resolution imaging to study the shapes, colors, and orbits of trans-Neptunian bodies, such as the elongated object 1998 SM165, revealing insights into their irregular forms and compositional diversity through photometric variations. For instance, observations confirmed 1998 SM165's dimensions of approximately 600 x 360 km, highlighting its status among the largest known elongated bodies in the region. As of 2025, the observatory's research emphasizes , leveraging infrared data from facilities like VATT and collaborations with the (JWST). These efforts explore infrared-luminous galaxies and their role in cosmic structure growth, integrating JWST observations to trace early processes. Exoplanet detection remains a key focus, employing transit photometry to identify planetary candidates around bright stars, with follow-up spectroscopic confirmations enhancing measurements. The observatory also analyzes JWST data for primordial light and studies, inspired by the Vatican Observatory (VOSS) 2025 program (held in summer 2025), which examined the epoch of reionization through high-redshift galaxy spectra and interactions. Methodologies include spectroscopic surveys of stellar populations to dissect chemical abundances and kinematics in galactic bulges and clusters. Research outputs are disseminated through peer-reviewed publications in journals such as , with notable contributions including studies on variable stars and galactic dynamics. Vatican Observatory data are routinely integrated into global catalogs like , supporting astrometric refinements for mapping and merger history reconstructions. These efforts underscore the observatory's role in advancing collective astronomical knowledge.

Planetary Science and Interdisciplinary Studies

The Vatican Observatory's planetary science research emphasizes the study of small solar system bodies, including asteroids and , to understand their origins and compositions. Astronomers at the Observatory classify asteroids and based on spectral properties and physical characteristics, such as and measurements conducted in their laboratories. For instance, the Observatory's collection, one of the largest globally with over 1,100 samples from more than 500 distinct falls, includes detailed analyses of carbonaceous chondrites, which reveal insights into the early solar system's volatile-rich materials. A key figure in this work is , whose laboratory analyses have examined more than 1,000 samples to determine their bulk densities and internal structures, linking compositions to types and the evolution of planetary building blocks. These efforts include classifying falls like the Hamburg, Michigan as H-chondrites, high-iron stony that provide clues to differentiation processes in the solar nebula. Prominent projects utilize the (VATT) for imaging trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs), contributing to discoveries such as the object 2021 XD7, and providing detailed observations of objects like the centaur 5145 Pholus, which help map the outer solar system's dynamical structure. VATT observations have also measured optical colors for over 64 objects and Centaurs, aiding in their taxonomic classification and evolutionary modeling. In , the Observatory assesses habitability through interdisciplinary lenses, co-hosting conferences like the 2014 "Search for Life Beyond the Solar System" to explore potential biosignatures and habitable zones around other stars. Interdisciplinary studies at the Observatory bridge with and , exemplified by adjunct staff member Fr. Michał Heller's explorations in , where he applies non-commutative geometry to unify and , addressing singularities in cosmological models. These efforts foster faith-science dialogues on cosmology, including endorsements of —originally proposed by Jesuit priest —as compatible with theological views of creation, as discussed in Observatory conferences and publications. In 2025, ongoing surveys using VATT data from a 15-year analysis continue to refine models of TNO populations, hinting at unseen massive bodies influencing orbital clustering. Collaborations with on sample return missions, such as , involve Observatory experts like Br. Robert Macke, S.J., who developed custom densitometers to analyze Bennu samples for and , enhancing understanding of carbonaceous materials. These advancements also prompt discussions on the ethical implications of , integrating scientific findings with theological reflections on humanity's role in the .

Education and Outreach

Educational Programs

The Vatican Observatory Summer School (VOSS) is a biennial program established in , designed to provide advanced training in and to young scientists from around the world. Held at the Observatory's site, it typically spans four weeks and selects approximately 24 participants through a competitive application process, offering tuition-free attendance with room, board, and travel support funded by donations. The 2025 edition, running from June 1 to 27, focused on "Exploring the Universe with the ," delivering lectures and hands-on sessions on key JWST findings related to cosmic , formation, star birth, and black holes, including practical training in tools. Complementing VOSS, the Astronomy for Catholics in Ministry and Education (ACME) workshops, initiated in the early 2010s, target clergy, religious educators, and teachers to foster understanding of astronomy within a framework of science-faith dialogue. These four-day immersions, hosted biennially in , provide an overview of astronomical concepts and their theological implications, with recent sessions in 2024 emphasizing to equip participants for integrating scientific insights into pastoral and educational roles. Additional educational initiatives include internships tailored for Jesuit scholastics pursuing , allowing them to engage in astronomical and operations at the Observatory's facilities as part of their formation. Online resources from the Specola Vaticana, such as introductory courses on fundamental astronomical principles, extend access to broader audiences seeking self-paced learning in . Since their inception, these programs have trained over 450 , many from developing countries, contributing to a of scientists and educators who advance astronomical knowledge while bridging and . The 2025 VOSS , in particular, highlighted JWST techniques to prepare participants for ongoing challenges.

Public Engagement and Publications

The Specola Vaticana Visitor Center, located within the Papal Summer Villa Gardens in , opened to the public in August 2023, providing guided tours that highlight the Observatory's historical and astronomical heritage. These 60-minute tours, available in and English, feature access to two historic telescopes—the Carte du Ciel and the 1953 Schmidt —housed in garden domes, along with displays of antique and contemporary astronomical instruments and thematically inspired artwork. Reservations are managed through the , ensuring structured access to the site, which has drawn significant public interest since its reopening after over two decades. To broaden outreach, the Vatican Observatory operates a Request-a-Speaker program, enabling astronomers and staff to deliver presentations on topics intersecting , , and astronomy at public events, church gatherings, conferences, and educational settings worldwide. Director Brother , S.J., has been a prominent figure in this effort, authoring accessible that explore these themes, including the 2014 bestseller Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial?, co-written with Paul Mueller, S.J., which addresses questions at the nexus of and cosmology. Media coverage has further amplified the Observatory's visibility, such as a July 2025 New Yorker profile on Consolmagno and the institution's role in bridging and . The Observatory engages the public through a range of publications and digital resources aimed at non-specialists. Its popular books series includes works by staff and collaborators, such as Consolmagno's 2025 title A Jesuit's Guide to the Stars, which traces Jesuit contributions to astronomy while emphasizing wonder and ethical reflection. The official website hosts the , featuring discussions with astronomers on cosmic discoveries and their spiritual implications, alongside the Sacred Space Astronomy blog, which shares reflections, news, and educational content to foster dialogue between faith and science. In 2025, the Observatory deepened public engagement through collaborations with Vatican News, including coverage of (JWST) discoveries highlighted during its program, where participants analyzed early mission data under papal auspices. Additionally, it contributed to Vatican-led ethics forums on , particularly its applications in astronomical research, aligning with broader initiatives like the Builders AI Forum to promote responsible technology that respects human dignity.

References

  1. [1]
    Astronomical Observatory - Vatican State
    Oct 2, 2018 · The Astronomical Observatory, or Specola Vaticana, is a scientific research institute, directly subject to the Holy See.
  2. [2]
    History - Vatican Observatory
    In its historical roots and traditions the Vatican Observatory is one of the oldest astronomical institutes in the world.<|control11|><|separator|>
  3. [3]
    About Us - Vatican Observatory
    They stand at the forefront of scientific research covering a broad range of topics, from an examination of the tiniest specks of interplanetary dust to the ...
  4. [4]
    Our Impact - Vatican Observatory
    For 400 years, the Vatican has been advancing scientific inquiry and promoting awareness of how our universe works.
  5. [5]
    astronomy, calendars - Vatican Observatory
    Above After Pope Gregory XIII approved the proposed reform of the calendar, the Jesuit priest Christoph Clavius wrote a book explaining the reasoning behind ...
  6. [6]
    The Vatican Observatory: In the Service of Nine Popes
    By observing with this meridian Gregory XIII is said to have come to the personal realization of the absolute need for the reform of the calendar which had ...
  7. [7]
    A brief history of the Vatican meteorite collection - GeoScienceWorld
    A Pontifical Observatory at the Roman College itself was formally established in 1774, although it was not well equipped or financed. However, after observing a ...
  8. [8]
    https://brill.com/display/book/9789004387331/BP000004.pdf
  9. [9]
    [PDF] History-of-the-Vatican-Observatory.pdf
    A rotating dome of 3.5 meters with a slit opening of 58 cm was soon in- stalled on the Tower of the Winds to house the small Merz equatorial. This was the first ...Missing: 1774 | Show results with:1774<|control11|><|separator|>
  10. [10]
    History - Vatican Observatory
    Christoph Clavius, a Jesuit mathematician from the Roman College, who expounded and explained the reform of the calendar. Fr. Christoph Clavius. Rev ...Missing: Gregorian | Show results with:Gregorian
  11. [11]
    Visits to the Pope's astronomical observatory at Castel Gandolfo are ...
    Aug 3, 2023 · From 3 August, the Pope's astronomical observatory in Castel Gandolfo reopens to the public. The Vatican Observatory (Specola Vaticana) ...Missing: Center | Show results with:Center
  12. [12]
    INTERVIEW WITH THE NEW DIRECTOR OF ... - Vatican Observatory
    Aug 1, 2025 · It is defined as a scientific body engaged in astronomical research, whose autonomy is governed by specific regulations. In this interview, ...Missing: governance | Show results with:governance
  13. [13]
    [PDF] Official Press Kit - Vatican Observatory
    Observatory scientists study a range of related sci- ences such as quantum gravity; meteorites and Moon rocks; and possible life on planets orbiting other stars ...
  14. [14]
    Governatorate - Vatican State
    Jun 25, 2024 · The Governorate is composed by the Government Bodies and other entities that cooperate in exercising the executive power of Vatican City State.
  15. [15]
    FAQ - Vatican Observatory
    ... web site at this link: http://www.vaticanobservatory.va/content ... The Vatican Observatory is a branch of the formal government of the Vatican City State.
  16. [16]
    The Foundation - Vatican Observatory
    The Vatican Observatory Foundation (VOF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created to support the scientific and educational endeavors of the Vatican ...
  17. [17]
    Vatican Observatory Foundation A Nonprofit Corporation - News Apps
    ... Unclassified (NTEE). Donations to this organization are tax deductible. Summary charts: organization finances over time. Revenue. $1.6M (2023). 2011 2023 $0 $1M ...
  18. [18]
    The Vatican Observatory Looks to the Heavens | The New Yorker
    Jul 28, 2025 · A Jesuit, Christopher Clavius, helped propose that the Vatican adopt the Gregorian calendar, which it did in 1582. According to the historian ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  19. [19]
    Argentinean priest-astronomer named new director of Vatican ...
    Aug 20, 2006 · Father Funes was born in Cordoba, Argentina, and is a member of the Observatory. He replaces American Jesuit Father George Coyne. Father Funes ...
  20. [20]
    https://www.ncronline.org/news/people/pope-names-us-jesuit-planetary-scientist-head-vatican-observatory
  21. [21]
    Pope names U.S. Jesuit planetary scientist to head Vatican ...
    Sep 18, 2015 · Guy Consolmagno to be the new director of the Vatican Observatory. He replaces Argentine Jesuit Fr. Jose Funes, 52, who has been on the staff of ...
  22. [22]
    Carl Sagan Medal for Excellence in Public Communication in ...
    Carl Sagan Medal for Excellence in Public Communication in Planetary Science ; 2014, Guy Consolmagno ; 2013, Donald K. Yeomans ; 2012, Patrick Michel ; 2011, James ...
  23. [23]
    Fr Richard D'Souza S.J. is new Director of Vatican Observatory
    Jul 31, 2025 · Fr. D'Souza has been a staff member of the Vatican Observatory since 2016 and has held the role of the Superior of the Jesuit community of the ...
  24. [24]
    Rev. Richard A. D'Souza, S.J. - Vatican Observatory
    Phd in Astronomy, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, 2016. Background: Fr. Richard D'Souza SJ was born in 1978 in Pune, India and hails from Goa, India.
  25. [25]
    Remembering Fr. George Coyne, SJ, former director of the Vatican ...
    Feb 11, 2020 · Fr. Coyne is most known for his 28 years as director of the Vatican Observatory. His expertise in the field of astronomy and his thoughtful ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  26. [26]
    DPS Sagan Medal to Guy Consolmagno | Lunar and Planetary ...
    PTYS alumnus Dr. Guy Consolmagno, S.J. (1978) is the recipient of the 2014 Carl Sagan Medal for Excellence in Public Communication in Planetary Science from ...
  27. [27]
    Staff - Vatican Observatory
    Staff ; Br. Guy J. Consolmagno, S.J.Director Vatican Observatory ; Rev. Gabriele Gionti, S.J.Vice Director for Castel Gandolfo ; Rev. Pavel Gabor, S.J.Vice ...Missing: list | Show results with:list
  28. [28]
    Team - Vatican Observatory
    Area of Research. Galaxies and Galaxy Clusters, Preservation and Digitization of Astronomical Plates. Bio. Fr. Jacek Olczyk, S.J. ...
  29. [29]
    Natalia Zotov Obituary (2012) - Bridgeport, CT - Connecticut Post
    While there, she spent two summers at the Vatican Observatory, the first woman to be accorded that privilege, and she was presented to the Pope at a private ...
  30. [30]
    GPS coordinates of Vatican Observatory, Italy. Latitude
    GPS coordinates of Vatican Observatory, Italy. Latitude: 41.7417 Longitude: 12.6503.
  31. [31]
    Telescopes in Castel Gandolfo - Vatican Observatory
    Construction began in 1932 and by 1935 it was mostly complete. The new visual refractor was installed under a large wooden dome 8.5 meters in diameter resting ...Missing: architecture | Show results with:architecture
  32. [32]
    The Pope opens the Gardens of Castel Gandolfo - Vatican Museums
    Mar 1, 2014 · From 1 March 2014, pilgrims and tourists will can cross the threshold of the Pontifical Villas of Castel Gandolfo to visit the exclusive Barberini Garden.
  33. [33]
    Historic Telescopes - Castel Gandolfo - Vatican Observatory
    Zeiss Visual Refractor Telescope. In the early 1930s, plans for a new Specola at Castel Gandolfo were prepared by the firm Carl Zeiss of Jena.Missing: history architecture
  34. [34]
    A Sweet Piece of “Old Tech” - Vatican Observatory
    Oct 22, 2022 · This telescope is one of the Observatory's older instruments. It is the Merz refractor with an equatorial mounting, an aperture of 10 cm and a focal length of ...Missing: 1893 | Show results with:1893
  35. [35]
    Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope - Steward Observatory
    Elevation. 10,469 ft. Telescope Specifications. Aperture. 1.8 m. Focal Length. 16.48 m. Mount. Altitude/Azimuth. Additional Information on telescope ...
  36. [36]
    A Brief History of the VATT - Vatican Observatory
    Sep 1, 2023 · In the fall of 1986, the Vatican Observatory Foundation was incorporated and the design of the telescope began. In February 1990, the telescope ...Missing: architecture | Show results with:architecture
  37. [37]
    Telescopes - VATT - The Vatican Observatory
    The Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT) truly lives up to its name. Its heart is a 1.8-m f/1.0 honeycombed construction, borosilicate primary mirror.Telescope Images · Castel Gandolfo · Tours · Overview
  38. [38]
    Progress on Mount Graham - Vatican Observatory
    Nov 27, 2017 · ... Astronomy; the other is the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT). ... Other advanced features are adaptive optics and a primary ...
  39. [39]
    [PDF] Cover Page - Annual Report 1999 of The Vatican Observatory
    May 5, 2022 · The VATT, which consists of the Alice P. Lennon Telescope and the Thomas J. Bannan Astrophysics Facility, is the first optical−infrared ...
  40. [40]
    The Advanced Technology of the VATT - Vatican Observatory
    Aug 16, 2023 · VATT's advanced tech includes internal ventilation, spin casting, stressed lap polishing, and a compact design, producing sharper images and  ...
  41. [41]
    The Fight for Dzil Nchaa Si An, Mt. Graham - Cultural Survival
    Mar 24, 2010 · The conflict over Dzil Nchaa Si An, "Big Seated Mountain," pits Apache religious freedom against "bit science." It is a case of David and Goliath.
  42. [42]
    Making a Mountain into a Starbase: The Long, Bitter Battle over ...
    ... Vatican Observatory Director insisted that Mount Graham really was not sacred. ... In July 1993, the Apache Tribal Council rescinded the four previous ...
  43. [43]
    Vatican's most advanced telescope goes automatic - Aleteia
    Jul 7, 2024 · The "Don" has introduced new automated features that will see Vatican Observatory astronomers use their Arizona-based telescope from Rome.
  44. [44]
    The Best Telescope in the World Under My Command (re-run)
    Aug 5, 2023 · ESO operates the VLT (Very Large Telescope), an array of 8.2 meter telescopes, each of them among the best in the world, and is fully engaged in the ...Missing: collaborations | Show results with:collaborations
  45. [45]
    Discoveries - Vatican Observatory
    The Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT) has produced a number of important scientific results over its 25 year history.
  46. [46]
    1998 SM165: A large Kuiper belt object with an irregular shape | PNAS
    Our 1.8-m Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope and charge-coupled device camera observations of the KBO 1998 SM165 indicate its brightness periodically varies ...
  47. [47]
    VOSS 2025 - Vatican Observatory
    VOSS 2025 will present a comprehensive overview of the major JWST results in its first three years (2022-2025), covering the four major scientific themes of ...
  48. [48]
    Exoplanets - Vatican Observatory
    NASA's Kepler spacecraft has produced several thousand possible transit detections so far, but a true verification can only be made if a spectroscopic follow-up ...Missing: detection methods
  49. [49]
    Vatican Observatory Summer School 2025 explores the universe ...
    Jun 6, 2025 · The academic program covers four fundamental areas: primordial light and reionization, the formation of galaxies, the birth of stars and ...
  50. [50]
    The Global Dynamical Atlas of the Milky Way Mergers - IOP Science
    Feb 17, 2022 · Here, we uncover the Milky Way mergers by detecting groupings of globular clusters, stellar streams, and satellite galaxies in action (J) space.
  51. [51]
    [PDF] MG1-688432: A Peculiar Variable System - Vatican Observatory
    Aug 16, 2021 · Abstract. The short-period variable star MG1-688432 has been discovered to exhibit occasional extremely high energy.
  52. [52]
    Meteorite collection - Vatican Observatory
    The Vatican Observatory Meteorite collection is one of the major meteorite collections in the world, with over 1100 samples of more than 500 different falls.
  53. [53]
    The density and porosity of meteorites from the Vatican collection
    Feb 4, 2010 · These include several types not previously reported: eight iron meteorites, six stony-iron meteorites, an enstatite chondrite, the CI ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  54. [54]
    Br. Guy J. Consolmagno, S.J. - Vatican Observatory
    Br. Consolmagno's research explores the connections between meteorites and asteroids, and the origin and evolution of small bodies in the solar system.
  55. [55]
    Michigan Meteorites Classified - Vatican Observatory
    Feb 3, 2018 · Meteorites from the Hamburg Michigan fall have been classified as H-Chondrites; these are stony meteorites with a high iron content.
  56. [56]
    Praamžius—One of the VATT's Discoveries - Vatican Observatory
    Aug 20, 2022 · Earlier this year, the Vatican Observatory got some significant press for our discovery of a new “Trans-Neptunian Object”—TNO “2021 XD7”.
  57. [57]
    Scientific Results from the VATT - Vatican Observatory
    Sep 8, 2023 · The Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT) has produced a number of important scientific results over its 25 year history.
  58. [58]
    Planetary Sciences - Vatican Observatory
    Boyle, with collaborators Cernis and Laugalys (Vilnius), is doing astrometry on asteroids and trans-Neptunian objects, including the discovery of a number of ...
  59. [59]
    Fr. Michal Heller - From Communist Oppression to Intellectual ...
    Aug 1, 2016 · Fr. Heller's scientific work is in the field of general relativity and its unification with quantum mechanics through non-commutative Geometry.Missing: gravity | Show results with:gravity
  60. [60]
    Big Universe and God - Vatican Observatory
    We believe that the universe originated with the “Big Bang” about 14 billion years ago (thank you Fr. Georges Lemaitre, who developed the ...Missing: dialogues cosmology
  61. [61]
    Meet the Vatican scientist helping NASA on a historic space mission
    Sep 28, 2023 · NASA's OSIRIS-REx asteroid sample return mission ... According to Macke, the Vatican Observatory has been involved in “countless collaborations ...
  62. [62]
    Vatican astronomer helps NASA in historic mission to study asteroid
    Sep 19, 2023 · Jesuit Brother Bob Macke, a Vatican astronomer and meteorite expert, has built a custom device for studying material from the first US mission to collect a ...Missing: collaborations return
  63. [63]
    Summer School - Vatican Observatory
    VOSS 2025 will present a comprehensive overview of the major JWST results in its first three years (2022-2025), covering the four major scientific themes of ...
  64. [64]
    Vatican Observatory Summer School 2025 - Indico Global
    The Vatican Observatory Summer School 2025, from June 1-27, focuses on JWST results and data processing, covering four major scientific themes.Missing: primordial | Show results with:primordial
  65. [65]
    ACME - Vatican Observatory
    Astronomy for Catholics in Ministry and Education (ACME) is a four day workshop sponsored by the Vatican Observatory Foundation, designed to bring those ...
  66. [66]
    Vatican Observatory workshop nourishes sense of wonder about ...
    Jan 30, 2024 · The biennial workshop is geared towards Catholic school teachers and parish priests. “The goal is to teach educators to appreciate what astronomy is,”
  67. [67]
    Rob Lorenz, S.J. Archives - Vatican Observatory
    someone who is the midst of their studies towards ordination — who has been missioned to the Vatican Observatory ...
  68. [68]
    An Introduction to the Universe: The Big Ideas of Astronomy
    Jan 2, 2020 · This course will give you a deeper appreciation of the sky and our ever-growing understanding of astronomy. Your guide for this journey through ...
  69. [69]
    All about the Vatican Observatory Summer School - la civiltà cattolica
    Jun 24, 2025 · The 2025 Vatican Observatory Summer School (VOSS) in Observational Astronomy and Astrophysics at the Observatory headquarters in Castel Gandolfo, outside Rome.
  70. [70]
    Vatican Observatory - Home
    Reservations for visits can be booked online at the official website of the Vatican Museums https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home/calendar/visit/Specola ...
  71. [71]
    https://www.vaticanobservatory.org/request-a-speaker/
  72. [72]
    Request a Speaker - Vatican Observatory
    To request a Vatican Observatory speaker at a public event or in a classroom, use this form to send a request to Rob Lorenz, SJ.
  73. [73]
    Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial? - Penguin Random House
    Would You Baptize an Extraterrestrial? will make you laugh, make you think, and make you reflect more deeply on science, faith, and the nature of the universe.
  74. [74]
    Vatican Astronomer releases 'A Jesuit's Guide to the Stars'
    Jul 25, 2025 · Published on the 4th February, the book charts the long history of Jesuit engagement with astronomy.
  75. [75]
    Podcast - Vatican Observatory
    In this podcast, you'll hear from Vatican astronomers and their accomplished special guests as they explore the wonder of God's surprising universe.Missing: blogs | Show results with:blogs
  76. [76]
    Sacred Space Astronomy Archives - Vatican Observatory
    Sacred Space Astronomy is the Vatican Observatory's digital community and online magazine where we get to share our love of space and faith.
  77. [77]
    Exploring the cosmos fills us with wonder, Pope tells scientists
    Jun 16, 2025 · Pope Leo XIV said on Monday, modern scientists continue to explore the universe with new tools, including the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST).Missing: research | Show results with:research<|control11|><|separator|>
  78. [78]
    https://www.vaticannews.va/en/pope/news/2025-11/pope-leo-xiv-message-builders-ai-forum-ethical-technology.html