Ximena Lincolao, Chilean Minister of Science Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation, visits ESO Headquarters

Today, 10 July 2026, the Chilean Minister of Science, Technology, Knowledge, and Innovation, Ximena Lincolao, visited ESO’s Headquarters in Garching bei München, Germany together with a small delegation. The visit, the second by a Chilean Science Minister in just two years, marks the first time the new Minister, who took office just a few months ago, visits ESO’s premises. It underscores the close collaboration between ESO and Chile, which remains vibrant and strong since the organisation and the country first signed a partnership agreement more than 60 years ago.

The visitors were welcomed by ESO Director General Xavier Barcons, ESO Director for Science Jarle Brinchmann, ESO Director of Engineering Sara Krauss, ESO Director of Programmes Adrian Russell and ESO’s Institutional Affairs Officer Beatrice Kioko. During the visit, Minister Lincolao had the opportunity to learn more about ESO’s development activities in Germany and operations in Chile, as well as its contributions to the development of Chilean astronomy, societal engagement and opportunities for local industry.

As part of the visit, they toured ESO’s Headquarters, including ESO’s Large Integration Hall, where components of ESO's Extremely Large Telescope are assembled, and other engineering facilities. Minister Lincolao also met with several ESO staff members, including Chilean staff working at the ESO Headquarters, before visiting the ESO Supernova Planetarium & Visitor Centre.

ESO Director General Xavier Barcons said: "Chile has the world’s most pristine dark skies for astronomy, which we are privileged to observe with our telescopes in the country, while contributing to the growth of Chilean astronomy and fostering technological innovation. We are very honoured to welcome Science Minister Lincolao to our headquarters in Germany to further strengthen our collaboration, for mutual benefit.”