VOICED: Star-gazing brings Vatican astronomers 'closer to God'

Guy Consolmagno, a Jesuit priest and astronomer, works at the Vatican Observatory, blending faith and science. His belief in God fuels his scientific pursuits, seeking order in the universe. The observatory, located at the Pope's summer residence, boasts a vast meteorite collection and has made significant scientific contributions, such as proving the Green flash phenomenon. The Vatican Observatory serves both the church and the scientific community, maintaining an open mind towards new discoveries, including the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

What motivates Guy Consolmagno in his scientific endeavors?

• His interest in technology

• His desire for fame

• His faith in God

• His belief in chaos

What is one of the notable achievements of the Vatican Observatory?

• Proving the existence of the Green flash

• Discovering a new planet

• Finding a cure for a disease

• Inventing a new telescope

What is the Vatican Observatory's primary role?

• To compete with other observatories

• To explore only the solar system

• To focus solely on religious studies

• To serve the Pope, the church, and the scientific community

How has the Vatican's approach to astronomy changed over time?

• It has focused only on religious interpretations

• It has become more skeptical of scientific theories

• It has remained unchanged

• It has become more open-minded, even considering extraterrestrial life

What was the Vatican's historical stance on Galileo's theory?

• They ignored it

• They supported it

• They poured scorn on it

• They were indifferent