Introduction
Julieta Fierro Gossman, a renowned Mexican astronomer and science communicator, passed away on September 19, 2025, at the age of 77. Her academic and human legacy has left an indelible mark on generations of people in Mexico and beyond.
Early Life and Education
Born in Mexico City, Julieta Fierro dedicated her life to scientific research and, most importantly, to the dissemination of science. She studied Physics and Astronomy at the Faculty of Sciences of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), specializing in solar system and interstellar medium studies.
Throughout her career, she served as an investigator at the Institute of Astronomy, a university professor, director of the Universum Museum, and head of the General Directorate of Science Dissemination at UNAM. In these roles, she developed strategies to make knowledge accessible to children, young people, and adults.
Accomplishments and Recognitions
Her work earned her numerous national and international awards, including the UNESCO Kalinga Prize, the Divulgation Award from the Academy of Sciences of the Third World, the UNAM Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz Award, and the Mario Molina Merit Medal in Sciences from the Mexico City Congress.
Fierro also received four honorary doctorates and was a distinguished member of the Academy of Arts and Sciences in the Americas, a prestigious title shared by luminaries such as Albert Einstein and Charles Darwin. Only 14 Mexicans have received this recognition, including former UNAM rector José Sarukhán and physicist Marcos Moshinsky.
A Voice Making Science Accessible
Throughout her career, Fierro published over 40 books, countless articles, and participated in radio and television programs, conferences, and exhibitions. Her works like La familia del sol (The Sun’s Family) and Cartas astrales (Astral Letters) exemplify her ability to explain complex phenomena using accessible language.
With humor and approachability, Fierro believed that science dissemination should be regarded as an integral part of academic work. She famously stated, “The day science dissemination is valued, scientists—who are very smart—will also do it.”
Advocating for Women in Science
Beyond her scientific contributions, Fierro championed the role of women in science. She pointed out that policies were still lacking to balance academic life with motherhood and proposed measures such as on-site childcare at study centers or extended scholarships for doctoral and postdoctoral studies.
In an interview with El Economista, she shared personal anecdotes that highlighted her humanity and sense of humor. She recalled how, as a child, she wanted to be a circus performer with an elephant and have 12 children, dreams that eventually evolved into a passion for science. Her love for dissemination, she said, began when she tried to explain scientific concepts to her brother with Down syndrome through simple experiments and notes.
A Lasting Legacy
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Fierro sent messages of encouragement and reflected on the importance of societal reinvention. She remained active in projects with UNESCO and was writing a book in collaboration with writer Angelina Muñiz-Huberman, merging poetry and astronomy.
The UNAM, where she spent much of her career, deeply mourned her passing: “With her voice and dedication, she brought science to multiple generations, leaving a legacy that transcends borders and time.”
Dr. Julieta Fierro defined herself as a simple woman who enjoyed tending plants, spending time with friends, and giving lectures. Today, her footprint remains in every child, young person, and aspiring scientist who discovered in her that science can also be close, passionate, and deeply human.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who was Julieta Fierro? Julieta Fierro Gossman was a prominent Mexican astronomer and science communicator who dedicated her life to research and making science accessible.
- What were her major accomplishments? Fierro received numerous awards, including the UNESCO Kalinga Prize and honorary doctorates from various institutions. She published over 40 books and countless articles, contributing significantly to science dissemination.
- How did she advocate for women in science? Fierro emphasized the need for policies to balance academic life with motherhood and proposed measures like on-site childcare and extended scholarships for doctoral studies.
- What is her lasting legacy? Fierro’s dedication brought science to multiple generations, and her approachable style made complex scientific concepts understandable. Her humanity and passion for science continue to inspire aspiring scientists.
