Ever gazed into the inky expanse above wondering about the universe’s mysteries? Welcome to the Club de Astronomía Ing Félix Aguilar a place where such wonder is celebrated.
This club isn’t just a building it’s a legacy. Founded in 1980 it began as a simple astronomy course. The course was led by Dr Antonio Cardarelli a judge a teacher and a passionate amateur astronomer. His enthusiasm ignited a spark in his students a spark that grew into the CAIFA we see today.
The club’s name honors Ing Félix Aguilar. Aguilar was a prominent Argentine engineer astronomer and professor. He was instrumental in measuring the Córdoba meridian and an arc of the meridian across Argentina. His contributions to astronomy and geodesy were immense. His dedication inspires the CAIFA members.
Initially a small group the CAIFA persevered. They secured support from the Vicente López municipality. They gained official recognition as a non-profit organization. Their ambitions expanded. They needed better equipment. Dedicated members designed and built a 330mm aperture f/4.4 reflecting telescope. They named it Gran Sasso after the hometown of its main builder. In 1996 they proudly inaugurated it along with a rotating dome.
The club’s growth continued. It received further municipal support and attained legal personality in 2007. Today the CAIFA has two locations a main headquarters and an observatory. The main headquarters in Vicente López hosts weekly meetings lectures and discussions. The observatory in Martínez provides opportunities for observing the planets galaxies and extragalactic objects. The Gran Sasso telescope is the centerpiece but other telescopes and binoculars are also available. Members gather sharing knowledge and their love of astronomy.
The CAIFA is more than a club. It’s a community. Its members represent diverse backgrounds and skill levels. It fosters a welcoming atmosphere and shares the wonders of the cosmos. It is a testament to the power of shared passion and the enduring human fascination with the stars. As you leave today remember the legacy of Ing Félix Aguilar and the ongoing work of the CAIFA. Look up at the night sky. You’ll see the universe they study and share.