Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences

The Museum of Astronomy and Related Sciences (MAST) is a public institution run by the Brazilian Government. It is dedicated to the study and dissemination of the history of science and technology in Brazil. The museum also focuses on museology and science education. It is located at 586 General Bruce Street in the Imperial District of São Cristóvão, in the North Zone of Rio de Janeiro.

The Collection of the National Observatory at MAST

MAST holds an important collection from the National Observatory. This collection brings together scientific instruments, machines, equipment, furniture, and sculptures, totaling more than two thousand objects. These objects are representative of Brazil's Scientific Heritage. In addition to the technical reserve, MAST regularly presents to the public exhibitions and planned activities including workshops, lectures, guided tours, and traditional observations of the sun and sky.

Exhibitions and Activities at MAST

MAST regularly presents a variety of exhibitions and planned activities to the public. These include workshops, lectures, guided tours, and traditional observations of the sun and sky. These activities provide an opportunity for visitors to engage with the scientific and technological history of Brazil in a hands-on and interactive way.

The 'Seasons of the Year: Earth in Motion' Exhibition

Inaugurated in July 2009, the exhibition 'The Seasons of the Year: Earth in Motion' is a unique feature of MAST. It offers elements for visitors to unravel some curiosities about the cycles of days and nights, the phases of the Moon, and the seasons of the year in different regions of Brazil, Earth, and other planets of the Solar System. Visitors can interact with 3D apparatuses, multimedia, videos, panels, and a scenography of the sky, providing a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

The 'Eclipse, Einstein, Sobral, and the GPS' Exhibition

The exhibition 'The Eclipse, Einstein, Sobral, and the GPS' is a fascinating feature of MAST. It tells the story of the scientific expedition that proved Albert Einstein's General Theory of Relativity. The exhibition provides details about how the photographs of the position of the stars near the solar edge were recorded in the cities of Sobral (Ceará) and on the Island of Príncipe (Africa). This exhibition offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the history of this significant scientific achievement.