Sociedad Chilena de Astronomía

The Sociedad Chilena de Astronomía (SOCHIAS) is Chile’s private-law nonprofit professional corporation for developing and communicating astronomy. Founded through its first assembly in 2000, it represents astronomers in Chile before national and international bodies, supports research and teaching, protects professional interests and rights, and connects universities, observatories, government institutions, and the wider astronomical community. SOCHIAS holds an annual scientific meeting, supports specialist conferences and education, maintains national professional and observing-time resources, publishes community reports and newsletters, participates in Chilean and international observatory committees, promotes public outreach, and advocates for dark-sky and astronomical-site protection. It remains active through its 21st Annual Meeting, 2026 research-funding coordination, current membership, education, meteorite-heritage, and night-sky work.