Kids Explore Turtles & Stars at Cozumel’s Punta Sur Event

Cozumel, Mexico — In a magical night dedicated to the sky and marine life, the Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC), in collaboration with the island’s Cha’an Ka’an Planetarium, hosted the event "Turtles and Constellations" at the Punta Sur Ecotourism Park. The initiative aimed to promote ecological and astronomical knowledge among Cozumel’s youth.

A Night of Ecological and Astronomical Discovery

Rafael Chacón Díaz, Director of Conservation and Environmental Education (CEA), reported that children and adolescents between the ages of 9 and 13 participated in this unique experience. The event combined sea turtle monitoring with stargazing, taking advantage of Punta Sur’s natural surroundings, which are free from light pollution.

During the activity, attendees visited an observation tower where they spotted flamingos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Later, they gathered at the Celarain Lighthouse, where Ricardo Peralta Muñoz, head of the turtle camp, gave a talk on the biology and ecological role of sea turtles. He highlighted their vital functions in marine ecosystems, including prey control, reef and seagrass maintenance, and nutrient transport.

Stargazing and Scientific Curiosity

The Cha’an Ka’an Planetarium team, led by Director Yazlin Marrufo Novelo and Dome and Observatory Chief Antonio Ríos, guided an astronomical observation session. They explained the positioning of constellations and allowed participants to use telescopes to observe planets and stars, sparking wonder and scientific curiosity.

Attendees also had the opportunity to observe marked turtle nests and even witnessed the emotional moment of a sea turtle laying its eggs.

Fostering Environmental and Scientific Awareness

Closing the event, Chacón Díaz emphasized the importance of bringing science closer to the community: "Disseminating ecological and astronomical knowledge not only shares wisdom but also fosters citizenship, strengthens skills, and awakens social responsibilities from an early age."

FPMC General Director Juanita Alonso Marrufo noted that such activities align with the New Agreement for the Well-being and Development of Quintana Roo, promoted by Governor Mara Lezama Espinosa. The initiative seeks equitable access to knowledge, particularly for younger generations, to create more informed, participatory, and environmentally committed communities.

The FPMC continues to engage the community with activities that contribute to the environmental and scientific education of Cozumel’s youth through meaningful experiences connecting nature, science, and culture.