Two Jesuit astronomers from the Vatican Observatory were part of recent discoveries: one finding a new member of the solar system and another finding evidence for a long-lost galaxy “eaten up” by the Milky Way.
Vatican astronomers are part of two new discoveries in outer space
Vatican Observatory launches podcast, new website
The podcasts are available on several platforms and they feature one of the pope’s own Jesuit astronomers speaking with a notable figure in the world of space exploration or science.
Mars missions can inspire next generation scientists, papal astronomer says
As Perseverance, the latest probe on Mars, gears up to send to Earth high-definition images, video and audio of its surroundings, one papal astronomer said he hoped the fresh new discoveries will inspire future explorers.
Can ET call anyone? Jesuit astronomer studies intragalactic possibilities
Jesuit Father Jose Funes, an expert in galaxies and extragalactic astronomy, has addressed the problem of “estimating the probabilities of causal contacts between civilizations in the galaxy.”
Jesuit astronomer works to unravel the mysteries of galactic evolution
Jesuit Father Richard D’Souza sees his appointment to the Vatican Observatory as a great complement to his priestly vocation. In both areas, he sees a call to search for meaning and understanding of God’s creation, he said.
Scientists, believers should admit how little they know, pope says
Scientists and people of faith always must admit they don’t know everything, and they must never be afraid to explore and discover more, Pope Francis told astronomy students and experts.
Eclipse thrills, inspires viewers to admire beauty of creation
Science teacher Jane Irwin isn’t often left without words, but the total solar eclipse left her in a quiet, reflective mood.
Discovery of Earth-sized planets boosts hope of finding alien life
The quest to find life on other planets got a boost when astronomers confirmed the existence of at least seven Earth-sized planets orbiting a red dwarf star just 40 light years away.