Scientific Dissemination of Astronomy at the Observatory Abrahão de Moraes

Abstract

The Abrahão de Moraes Observatory, established in the city of Valinhos-SP, and accessed by Vinhedo-SP, is a laboratory of scientific research belonging to the Institute of Astronomy, Geophysics and Atmospheric Sciences of the University of São Paulo. Due to the interests and efforts of professors, students and staff, it gradually opened its doors to scientific dissemination and now is recognized as an important center for dissemination of knowledge in its region, reaching even other farther cities. This diffusion occurs in direct contact through the quite frequently daytime visitations and nights of regular observations, both with prior reservation and even with sporadic events like open doors days, lectures and scholarships. Moreover, the indirect contact with public is also very intense through the use of one of its telescopes via Internet and recurrent insertions in the media, especially regional. Since 2008, are received, on average, more than 2,000 visitors each year, a number that may increase with adequate human and physical infrastructure. The improvement of the current conditions is on the horizon of the institution, encountering the increasing appreciation, which the University and other research funding agencies have been attributing to these activities.