Fr. D’Souza the new Director of the Vatican Observatory discusses his vision for the Observatory, its mission, and its role in the global scientific community.
Newsroom (05/08/2025 Gaudium Press ) On July 31, 2025, the liturgical memorial of Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Pope Leo XIV appointed Father Richard Anthony D’Souza, S.J., as the new Director of the Vatican Observatory, effective September 19, 2025. A seasoned astronomer at the Observatory, Fr. D’Souza steps into a role steeped in history and responsibility, guiding an institution that bridges faith and science through rigorous astronomical research. In an interview published on www.vaticanstate.va, Fr. D’Souza discusses his vision for the Observatory, its mission, and its role in the global scientific community.
Q: What was your reaction to your appointment by Pope Leo XIV as the new Director of the Vatican Observatory?
A: I am deeply honored by Pope Leo XIV’s appointment. The Vatican Observatory has been shaped by remarkable Jesuits whose contributions have made it a beacon of scientific excellence. Standing on their shoulders, I feel the weight of responsibility to guide the Observatory in serving the Pope and the Universal Church. Our mission is to foster dialogue between faith and science through robust research, and I am committed to advancing that legacy at this pivotal moment.
Q: How do you reconcile your Jesuit identity with your work as an astronomer?
A: The Society of Jesus has a rich history of scientific engagement, from Christopher Clavius to Angelo Secchi, who made significant contributions to astronomy. Jesuit spirituality, rooted in St. Ignatius’ call to “find God in all things,” aligns seamlessly with scientific inquiry. St. Ignatius himself found solace in contemplating the stars, urging us to see God’s work in creation. Our research not only deepens our awe of the universe but also allows us to engage pastorally with scientists, showing the Church’s presence at the frontiers of knowledge.
Q: How does the Vatican Observatory’s research integrate with international scientific efforts?
A: Since its founding in 1891, the Vatican Observatory has been a key player in global astronomy. It was part of the pioneering “Carte du Ciel” project, an early international effort to map the sky. Today, our research spans meteorites, exoplanets, stellar structures, cosmology, and even climate studies, inspired by Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’. Our astronomers, including Fr. Bayu Risanto, S.J., collaborate with global institutions, and our Tucson, Arizona, base strengthens ties with the U.S. astronomical community. Events like the Lemaitre Conferences, led by Fr. Gabriele Gionti, S.J., draw top scientists, including Nobel laureates. While our funding is modest, our independence allows us to pursue long-term projects, ensuring the Observatory’s influence far exceeds its resources, as envisioned by Pope Leo XIII in his 1891 Ut Mysticam.
Q: What challenges and opportunities does the Vatican Observatory face in modern astronomy?
A: Astronomy today involves massive telescopes, multimillion-euro instruments, and large-scale collaborations. Our independence, while a strength, limits automatic access to such projects. However, our astronomers’ expertise earns them invitations to contribute to international initiatives. The challenge is to maintain this access while leveraging our autonomy to explore unconventional research that challenges mainstream paradigms. This balance will define our future contributions on the global stage.
Q: How does the Vatican Observatory promote dialogue between science and faith?
A: Our work itself demonstrates that science and faith are compatible. Since the 1980s, when Pope John Paul II tasked us with fostering this dialogue, we’ve engaged Catholic universities worldwide through seminars like “Divine Action in the Universe” with the Center of Theology and the Natural Sciences. Our members publish articles, host seminars, and educate both academic and church audiences, showing that faith and science are not at odds but complementary.
Q: How does the Observatory contribute to scientific education and the training of new astronomers?
A: Our biennial summer school, running since the 1980s, trains young astronomers, particularly from developing countries, fostering their academic careers. These month-long programs create lasting networks, with alumni now holding university positions worldwide. Many return as faculty, passing on their knowledge. This initiative not only builds scientific capacity but also generates goodwill for the Observatory and the Church, inspiring the next generation to excel and connect.
Q: What qualities and skills are essential for working at the Vatican Observatory?
A: The Observatory, staffed by Jesuits since the 1930s, relies on astronomers, administrators, historians, and outreach specialists. Our lay staff in Castel Gandolfo and Tucson, along with adjunct scholars, extend our reach. Success hinges on a passion for science, strong collaboration skills, and discretion in representing the Church. Our global network of relationships, built over decades, underscores the importance of fostering trust and friendship in advancing our mission.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from vatican.va
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