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PHOENIX — The Vatican Observatory asserts that "science is not against God," inviting a connection between science and spirituality, according to Jesuit astrophysicist Father Pavel Gabor. He spoke at the 2025 Catholic Media Conference in Phoenix, discussing the observatory's role in bridging faith and scientific inquiry.
Father Gabor addressed why the Pope maintains an astrophysics research institute during a luncheon sponsored by the Pontifical Mission Societies USA. He noted many are unaware of the Vatican Observatory, one of the oldest astronomical institutes, tracing its roots to Pope Gregory XIII's solar calendar reform in 1582.
The observatory was relocated from Rome to Castel Gandolfo due to light pollution and later expanded to Tucson, Arizona, where it operates in collaboration with the University of Arizona's Steward Observatory. This partnership led to the construction of the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope on Mount Graham.
Despite its contributions, Father Gabor mentioned challenges from conspiracy theorists who claim fantastical purposes for the site. He counters these narratives by emphasizing theological perspectives on nature as "God’s two books."
Quoting Blaise Pascal and referencing Galileo Galilei, Father Gabor highlighted how both religious philosophy and historical figures like Galileo view scientific discovery as an expression of gratitude towards divine creation.
Father Gabor echoed sentiments from French astronomer Catherine Cesarski about recognizing humanity's place in the universe through astronomy. "If we manage to get every individual to gaze at the stars... and realize how wonderful... this Earth is," he said.
Gina Christian reported this story for OSV News.
