María Teresa Ruiz, the astronomer who lost most of her sight, but still teaches people to look at the universe

María Teresa Ruiz, a Chilean astronomer who has lost nearly all her vision, continues to teach others how to look at the universe. Diagnosed with macular degeneration, a condition affecting the central part of the retina, Ruiz has gradually lost her sight since around 2013. Today, she can see little through her left eye and only some details with her right. She described the process as frustrating, noting that treatments have not worked and there is no cure. The first signs of her condition appeared while she was at the beach with her husband, Fernando Lund, who also received the National Prize for Exact Sciences. While they were repairing a fence, Lund noticed that her eyes looked crooked. He stopped to check again and realized something was wrong. “His support has been essential,” Ruiz said, highlighting his sense of humor and positive attitude toward challenges. Ruiz’s journey began in childhood, when she showed an interest in plants, clocks, and ants. Her uncle often remarked on her curiosity and questions. However, she did not initially develop an interest in looking at the sky. That changed during the 1960s when she studied engineering at the University of Chile. Among over 100 students, she was one of only two women. A mechanical workshop practice did not appeal to her, leading her to explore the study of the universe. It was here that her fascination with astronomy began. She eventually joined the National Observatory of the University of Chile, located at Cerro Calán in Las Condes. Over time, she grew fond of observing the night sky and the Milky Way. Some people joked that she was going to read horoscopes, but Ruiz laughed off the comment. She noted that she was raised in an environment where few women pursued science, yet her grandmother encouraged her to believe that women could achieve anything. In 1997, Ruiz was awarded the National Prize for Exact Sciences, receiving the diploma from President Eduardo Frei Ruiz-Tagle. The recognition marked a milestone in her career, which had already included years of dedicated research and teaching. Despite her declining vision, she has not stopped working. After two years away from active research due to her condition, she returned and adapted her methods. She uses images and videos in her presentations and relies on her spatial memory to navigate her home. For instance, she places toothpaste on a finger to brush her teeth, using her peripheral vision effectively. Her ability to continue teaching and engaging with students has brought her joy. She has found ways to remain connected to her field, even as her physical sight diminishes. Ruiz’s story reflects resilience and determination, showing how passion and intellect can persist despite personal challenges. As she continues to share her knowledge, she inspires others to look beyond what they can see and focus on the vastness of the universe.