Atacamaområdet

The Atacama region, officially known as the Antofagasta Region, is one of Chile's sixteen first-level administrative divisions. It is located in the north of the country and is bordered by the Tarapacá Region to the north, the Andean region of Bolivia and the Argentine province of Jujuy to the east, the Coquimbo Region to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the west. The capital and largest city of the region is Antofagasta.

The Atacama region is renowned for its extreme aridity, making it one of the driest non-polar deserts in the world. This unique environment has led to a variety of geological formations and has also made it a prime location for astronomical observation. The clear skies and high altitude contribute to excellent visibility, with numerous observatories situated in the region, including ALMA (Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array).

Economically, the Atacama region is heavily reliant on mining, particularly copper and lithium. The vast mineral wealth beneath its surface has been a significant driver of economic activity. Tourism is also a growing sector, attracting visitors interested in the stark desert landscapes, ancient geoglyphs, and stargazing opportunities. Notable natural attractions include the Atacama Desert itself, the Moon Valley (Valle de la Luna), and various salt flats. The region's sparse population is concentrated in coastal cities and mining towns.