In the context of international cooperation in the field of astronomical research, the Ambassador of Italy to Chile, Valeria Biagiotti, and the Ambassador of the Netherlands to Chile, Elke Merks, paid an official visit to the Paranal Observatory of the European Southern Observatory, Eso, located in the Atacama Desert, 120 km south of Antofagasta and 1200 km from the capital Santiago.
The visit was made with the invaluable support of Professor Massimo Turatto representing the National Institute of Astrophysics, Inaf, the current Dutch representative on the Eso Council, Professor Paul Groot, as well as the representative of Eso's Director General, Itziar de Gregorio-Monsalvo.
During the tour, the Ambassadors witnessed the outstanding scientific work being carried out at the centre and the significant progress in the construction of the Extremely Large Telescope (Elt), one of the most ambitious projects in the history of astronomy. In addition, they were able to see for themselves how the exceptionally dark skies of Chile represent a valuable resource for global astronomical research. In this context, they reaffirmed the importance of their protection, which is essential to ensure the success of current and future scientific projects.
The Paranal Observatory, which houses the Very Large Telescope (Vlt), is a world reference in the observation of the cosmos and plays a fundamental role in the expansion of astronomical knowledge. The construction of the Vlt, which is currently under development, will mark a turning point in the exploration of the universe, making it possible to study the origins of the cosmos and the formation of planets around other stars in detail at unprecedented levels.
Italy and the Netherlands, as members of Eso, have actively contributed to the development of the infrastructure and research in the area, consolidating their commitment to the exploration of the universe and frontier science.
The Ambassadors then expressed their appreciation to the researchers and professionals who make this work possible, and reaffirmed their respective countries' commitment to the development of astronomy in Chile.
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