The management team at the Joint ALMA Observatory (JAO) have decided to return to regular operations over the next few days, with regular work shifts and scientific observations starting today, Monday October 28. “Scientific observations with ALMA stopped last Wednesday morning and we anticipate observations starting again this evening.” indicated ALMA director, Sean Dougherty.

The staff who work at the Santiago central offices also returned to their regular schedules today. Flexibility in work hours and shifts will continue based on the particular needs of staff. The management team continues to monitor the evolution of situation on a daily basis and reassessing decisions as necessary.

In Chile, a decision to increase metro fares in Santiago metropolitan area triggered protests in Santiago, which have spread to other areas in Chile in the middle of October. These protests have resulted in some cases in acts of violence and confrontation with security forces. The Chilean Government declared the state of emergency in several regions, including Santiago, and imposed a curfew. The curfew and the state of emergency were lifted on October 26 and 28, respectively.