Giant Magellan Telescope and Coquimbo Regional Government Announce Strategic Partnership

New collaboration aims to strengthen Chile's astronomy industry and establish Coquimbo as a global hub for science and innovation.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:00pm

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A bold, abstract painting featuring sweeping geometric arcs, concentric circles, and precise spirals in earthy tones of green, blue, and ochre, conveying the structural order and complexity of the cosmos without the use of any text or symbols.A visually striking abstract representation of the cosmic forces and structures that will be explored by the Giant Magellan Telescope, symbolizing Chile's growing leadership in the global astronomy industry.Pasadena Today

The Giant Magellan Telescope and the Coquimbo Regional Government in Chile have announced a strategic partnership to advance the country's astronomy industry, drive regional economic growth, and position the Coquimbo region as a global center for science, technology, and innovation. The agreement includes plans to establish Chile's first national visitor and education center for astronomy, developed in collaboration with the Exploratorium.

Why it matters

This partnership solidifies Chile's position as a world leader in astronomy, building on the country's existing infrastructure and expertise. By anchoring the Giant Magellan Telescope's primary operations in the Coquimbo region, the collaboration will create high-quality jobs, support scientific research, and promote astronomy tourism, benefiting the local community and strengthening Chile's global influence in this critical field.

The details

The partnership will see the Giant Magellan Telescope establish its main operations base in the Coquimbo region, including a flagship visitor and education center developed in collaboration with the Exploratorium. This center will showcase technological innovation, scientific discoveries, and promote workforce development and astronomy tourism. The agreement also designates the Port of Coquimbo as the main logistics hub for the telescope project, supporting the transport of major components during construction.

  • The strategic partnership was formalized on April 17, 2026 during the Coquimbo Regional Governor's official visit to the Giant Magellan Telescope's headquarters in Pasadena, California.
  • The new visitor and education center is expected to open in the early 2030s, coinciding with the completion of the Giant Magellan Telescope.

The players

Giant Magellan Telescope

A multi-billion-dollar international project to build one of the world's largest and most advanced ground-based telescopes, located in Chile's Atacama Desert.

Coquimbo Regional Government

The regional governing body responsible for promoting economic, social, and territorial development in the Coquimbo region of Chile.

Exploratorium

A global leader in interactive science education, collaborating with the Giant Magellan Telescope and Coquimbo Regional Government to develop the new national visitor and education center.

Cristóbal Juliá

The Governor of the Coquimbo Region, who formalized the partnership agreement with the Giant Magellan Telescope.

Daniel Jaffe

The President of the Giant Magellan Telescope, who met with the Coquimbo Regional Governor during the partnership signing.

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What they’re saying

“This partnership positions the Coquimbo Region at the forefront of an industry that is shaping the future of science, technology, and opportunity. By working with the Giant Magellan Telescope, we are creating high-quality jobs, advancing innovation, and establishing our region as a leader in one of the most important industries in the world, all while connecting Chileans with the incredible discoveries happening from our skies.”

— Cristóbal Juliá, Governor, Coquimbo Regional Government

“The Giant Magellan Telescope represents a multi-billion-dollar international investment in Chile, and this partnership ensures that its benefits extend well beyond the observatory site. Together, we are establishing a long-term foundation that supports scientific leadership, economic growth, expanded opportunity across the region, and a public-facing hub that will connect people directly with Chile's world-class astronomy industry.”

— Daniel Jaffe, President, Giant Magellan Telescope

“Together we're creating a place where people can gather and directly experience the power of science and engineering. Drawing on decades of experience creating spaces that spark curiosity and learning, we're proud to partner on this effort. This center will connect communities to Chile´s astronomy research, inspire future generations and make discovery tangible and accessible to all.”

— Anne Richardson, Chief Experience Officer, Exploratorium

What’s next

The new visitor and education center is expected to open in the early 2030s, coinciding with the completion of the Giant Magellan Telescope's construction.

The takeaway

This strategic partnership solidifies Chile's position as a global leader in astronomy, leveraging the Giant Magellan Telescope's investment to drive regional economic growth, promote public engagement with science, and inspire future generations of Chilean scientists and innovators. By establishing the Coquimbo region as a hub for astronomy research, education, and tourism, the collaboration will cement Chile's status as a world-class destination for astronomical discovery.