The National Astronomical Observatory of Mexico

For nearly a century, the National Astronomical Observatory (OAN) has stood as a cornerstone of Mexican astronomy. Incorporated into the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) in 1929, the OAN has played a pivotal role in advancing astrophysical research and fostering a new generation of astronomers.

María Soledad Funes Argüello, coordinator of Scientific Research at UNAM, emphasizes the OAN's profound impact on Mexican science. She highlights the Observatory's ability to inspire scientific vocations, ignite curiosity, and drive technological innovation. The OAN has been instrumental in unraveling the mysteries of the universe, from the formation of stars to the energetic processes that shape our cosmos.

The OAN has nurtured a rich legacy of scientific achievement. Renowned astronomers such as Paris Pişmiş, Luis Enrique Erro, Silvia Torres Peimbert, Guillermo Haro, Gloria Koenigsberger, and Arcadio Poveda honed their skills at the Observatory, leaving an indelible mark on the field.

Beyond its scientific contributions, the OAN has also played a crucial role in technological development. The Observatory has served as a breeding ground for innovative minds, producing engineers and scientists who have made significant contributions to Mexico's technological landscape. Nabor Carrillo Flores, a former rector of UNAM, and José de la Herrán, a renowned engineer, are just two examples of the OAN's influence on technological progress.

The OAN operates from two primary locations: Tonantzintla, Puebla, and the Sierra de San Pedro Mártir, Baja California. The latter, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional astronomical observing conditions. With its clear skies, high altitude, and minimal light pollution, the OAN-SPM is one of the world's premier sites for astronomical research.

The OAN is poised for continued growth and innovation. The Observatory is planning to acquire new telescopes, including a 1.3-meter Colibri telescope and a 6-meter telescope, to enhance its observational capabilities. Additionally, the OAN is participating in the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) project, aiming to study black holes and the conditions surrounding them with unprecedented precision.

A Haven of Darkness

Recognizing the critical importance of preserving the night sky's darkness, experts from the OAN and the Institute of Astronomy at UNAM have collaborated with local and state authorities to combat light pollution. This insidious threat can significantly impair astronomical observations, obscuring the faintest celestial objects and hindering scientific research.

To safeguard the OAN-SPM's pristine environment, the government of Baja California enacted the Regulation for the Prevention of Light Pollution in the municipality of Ensenada in 2006. This groundbreaking legislation, often referred to as the "Law of the Sky," establishes guidelines for reducing light pollution and ensuring the protection of the night sky.

The OAN-SPM's efforts to combat light pollution have set a precedent for other astronomical observatories around the globe. By implementing stringent regulations and promoting awareness of the issue, the Observatory has demonstrated the importance of preserving the night sky as a precious natural resource.

The days of solitary astronomers peering through telescopes have largely given way to a new era of automated observation and international collaboration. The OAN-SPM is at the forefront of this trend, boasting a network of ten telescopes, several of which are operated in partnership with astronomers from around the world. These collaborations have expanded the Observatory's reach and capabilities, allowing it to contribute to cutting-edge research on a global scale.

The OAN-SPM is not content to rest on its laurels. The Observatory has ambitious plans for the future, including the acquisition of new telescopes and participation in major international projects. One such project is the incorporation of the Colibri telescope, a 1.3-meter instrument that will be used to study gamma-ray flashes, the intense bursts of energy emitted by dying stars.

Another significant initiative is the planned acquisition of a 6-meter telescope, which would solidify the OAN-SPM's position as a world-class observatory. This ambitious project will require substantial resources, but the Observatory is committed to pursuing it in order to enhance its international standing.

The OAN-SPM is also actively involved in the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT) project, a global collaboration aimed at capturing images of black holes. By studying these enigmatic objects, astronomers can gain valuable insights into the fundamental nature of gravity and the structure of the universe.

As the OAN-SPM continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of scientific excellence and a testament to Mexico's commitment to astronomical research. With its world-class facilities, talented astronomers, and ambitious plans for the future, the Observatory is poised to play a leading role in the exploration of the cosmos for generations to come.