More than 60,000 people visited the six science centres in the Azores in 2011. According to the Regional Secretary for Science, Technology and Infrastructures, the considerable adherence to scientific dissemination observatories evidences that these spaces are becoming tourist hubs with potential to develop scientific tourism in the Azores.

José Contente spoke at the opening session of the general meeting of the Network of Science Centres, stressing that "we need to further improve regional scientific culture to create enlightened and informed citizens, therefore enhancing the growth of the knowledge society."

For the government official, the role played by observatories is important in accomplishing this goal as the regional network enhances the scientific skills and knowledge of the population, thus stimulating the technical and scientific skills of visitors - particularly among the school community - which might contribute to improve a knowledge-based economy.

"We want a more enlightened and informed society and, therefore, this investment policy in the field of science and technology are to be maintained. Every day, we are looking for new ideas to strengthen the knowledge society," the Regional Secretary stated, adding that the Government's strategies also envisage the creation conditions to foster the new pillar of development in the Azores, thus raising the Region to prominence outside the archipelago.

The Government annually invests one million Euros in Science Centres, an investment focused on the promotion and dissemination of scientific culture activities that have attracted thousands of visitors.

José Contente praised the synergies that different science centres have established among themselves, becoming a true network for the benefit of the public, and acknowledged the work, commitment and dedication of the team that promotes science on a daily basis.

One should recall that the Azores have six Science Centres: Santana Astronomical Centre (OASA) in Ribeira Grande; Expolab in Lagoa; Azores Volcanic and Geothermal Observatory (OVGA) in Lagoa; Azores Microbial Observatory (OMIC) in Furnas; Azores Environment Observatory (OAA) in Angra do Heroísmo and the Azores Sea Observatory (OMA) in Horta.