Ruptly
"In a public park north of Mazatlán is David Castellanos, an amateur astronomer who turned a corner of Avenida Jacarandas into a small community observatory, where families can observe the craters of the moon, the moons of Jupiter, and the rings of Saturn. Every night, dozens of people gather around the large handmade telescope made of wood and cardboard, almost two meters long, built through trial and manual work. The project was born from a curiosity that has accompanied David since childhood: understanding what exists beyond the visible sky. "I've always been fascinated by the sky. I think all children have the curiosity to want to know more than what we see," expressed David. A resident of Mazatlán for years, Castellanos studied electronics and worked in workshops and electrical systems of shrimp boats. However, his passion for astronomy never disappeared. Inspired by scientific documentaries and observations he made as a child, he decided to build his own telescope when the cost of importing a professional one exceeded his budget. "Out of the need to see planets closer and to see galaxies that can't be seen with the naked eye, distinguishable from the city," said David. The telescope was assembled with wood, mirrors, and components purchased online, and he dedicated nearly two years to the design and assembly of the optical instrument. Today, the equipment allows for the appreciation of planetary details visible from Mazatlán, even under the city's light pollution conditions. Neighbors and visitors claim that the experience has changed the way they observe the night sky. "It's very beautiful. We were able to see Jupiter, you can see the orange stripes. There are a few clouds, so it was a bit more complicated," said Angélica, a resident of Mazatlán. David Castellanos's project has brought astronomy directly to the streets and parks of the city, bringing science closer to children, young people, and entire families without the need to go to a specialized venue."
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