In Tucson, Arizona, the President of the Governorate participates in the Board meeting of the Vatican Observatory Foundation (VOF)

Sr. Raffaella Petrini, President of the Governorate of the Vatican City State, took part in the Board meeting of the Vatican Observatory Foundation (VOF), held on Saturday, March 21, in Tucson, Arizona, United States of America.

Also in attendance were Br. Guy Consolmagno,SJ, President of the Foundation, Fr. Richard D’Souza, SJ, Director of the Vatican Observatory, and Mr.Paul M. Pohl, Chairman of the Board.

The Vatican Observatory Foundation (VOF) is a non-profit organization established to support the scientific and educational efforts of the Vatican Observatory, including the maintenance and modernization of the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope (VATT).

Through fundraising initiatives and educational outreach activities—such as trips, newsletters, and seminars—the Foundation offers the general public an opportunity to learn about the Vatican Observatory and to take an active role in its mission.

While funding for salaries and administrative expenses of the Vatican Observatory comes directly from the Governorate of the Vatican City State, financial support for the telescope and educational initiatives is provided by the generous contributions of the Foundation’s benefactors.