The 2026 Puerto de Ideas Antofagasta Festival will turn the region into the global epicenter of astronomy during its upcoming edition, scheduled for April 23–26. Under the theme "From Neurons to the Cosmos: An Expedition into the Future of Life," the event will offer more than 100 free activities, including lectures, workshops, and interactive exhibits at the Science Promenade.
Presented by Escondida | BHP as part of its 35th-anniversary celebrations, the event aims to leverage the region's world-renowned skies to bring space research closer to the general public. The program is notable for its multidisciplinary approach, bridging laboratory research with the observation of complex stellar phenomena.
The Science of the Universe on a Human Scale
Astronomy will take center stage throughout the festival. In her talk, "What Does an Astronomer Do in an Observatory?", specialist Daniela Fernández will explore the geographic and climatic factors that make Chile a unique natural laboratory for studying the universe. Meanwhile, astronomer Laura Pérez will break down the role of the ALMA telescope in analyzing planetary formation around young stars in her session, "From Dust to Planets."
History will also play a key role, with Sergio Vásquez of the Mirador Interactive Museum (MIM) presenting "Chile, a Country of Telescopes." Vásquez will provide a chronological journey through the country's technical evolution from the 19th century to the consolidation of its current astronomical infrastructure. Additionally, he will discuss the significance of the Atacama Desert in researching the Martian surface.
The technical agenda includes Air Force Brigadier General Christian Stuardo, who will speak on the development of the National Space Center and the importance of satellites for national sovereignty and earth observation. In the realm of deep astrophysics, British scientist Joseph Anderson will detail the mechanics of supernovae, highlighting how next-generation technology will allow astronomers to detect thousands of these stellar events every week.
The festival also incorporates playful and educational offerings to engage new audiences. The Teatro de la Poesía company will present "Astronaut, Sailor of the Universe," a play that blends space exploration with emotional storytelling for families.
The event is funded by the Public Science program of the Ministry of Science, Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation, alongside the Ministry of Cultures. Through a partnership with the company Colbún, organizers have confirmed that the festival will be carbon neutral, reaffirming their commitment to sustainability. Those interested can view the full program and register for free via the official website, puertodeideas.cl.