Científicos católicos: Carlos de Sigüenza y Góngora

Carlos de Sigüenza y Góngora (1645–1700) served as a figure connecting Catholic faith with modern science in the Hispanic world. After studying with Jesuits in Tepotzotlán and Puebla, he was ordained a secular priest in 1673. He held the chair of mathematics and astrology at the Real y Pontificia Universidad de México for 20 years starting in 1672.

He worked as cosmógrafo for Carlos II, creating the first general map of Ciudad de México and designing hydraulic projects to prevent flooding in the valley. He also participated in scientific expeditions, such as a 1693 trip to the golfo de México and Florida, where he produced nautical charts for Pensacola and the Misisipi.

To separate science from superstition, he wrote a philosophical manifesto in 1681 to explain a large comet through science rather than fear. His major work, Libra astronómica y filosófica, was published in 1690.