"When they saw the star, they were overjoyed." (Mt 2:10)

From August 28 to 30, 2026, the Vatican Observatory will host the second edition of the Spirituality and Astronomy Workshop at its headquarters in Castel Gandolfo. This three-day event will offer an opportunity for spiritual reflection, scientific learning, and contemplation of the night sky.

The workshop will feature a rich program of introductory lectures, moments of prayer and sharing, guided tours of the telescopes, and evenings dedicated to observing the sky. Participants will be accompanied by members of the Vatican Observatory staff, researchers, astronomers, and members of religious communities, fostering a meaningful dialogue between science, faith, and culture.

The workshop will begin on Friday afternoon with an introduction by Fr. Richard D’Souza, S.J., Director of the Vatican Observatory. The program, organized by Sr. Irene Tranquillini, O.F.M.I., Fr. Gabriele Gionti, S.J., Dr. Matteo Galaverni, and Fr. Robert Janusz, S.J., will alternate between lectures, moments of spirituality and sharing, visits to the Observatory's telescope domes, and astronomical observations.

The workshop is particularly suitable for high school teachers, members of religious communities, pastoral workers, and anyone interested in deepening their understanding and contemplation of the universe through the encounter between faith and reason.